Rep. Steube Introduces AIRFARE Act
WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) introduced today the Accommodating Individuals Requesting Familial Assistance in Riding Efficiently (AIRFARE) Act. This bill resolves administrative gaps in the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) PreCheck program for minors and passengers requiring assistance.
“Anyone flying commercial knows getting through airport security is a hassle. The process is even more arduous for parents and caregivers assisting a loved one or passenger to their gate,” said Rep. Steube. “Travelers and their families deserve hospitality, not headaches, at the airport. My bill guarantees TSA PreCheck privileges are honored for non-travelers with gate passes to accompany passengers to their departure.”
Under the status quo, TSA PreCheck privileges are often ignored and denied for caregivers and parents who are accompanying traveling minors to their gate. To make matters worse, passengers who require wheelchairs must rely exclusively on airline employees or contractors to wheel them through the airport. The AIRFARE Act ensures TSA PreCheck privileges are honored for parents and caregivers. It also allows wheelchair travelers to be assisted to their gate by family members instead of airline personnel.
The AIRFARE Act has the support of the Allegiant Travel Company and the Association of Value Airlines.
“Allegiant is committed to ensuring that our customers have the best possible experience at all points of their journey. We commend Congressman Steube for his leadership on the AIRFARE Act, which will thoughtfully enhance the gate pass process to better serve families and passengers needing mobility assistance.” —Statement from the Allegiant Travel Company
“The Association of Value Airlines appreciates Congressman Steube’s leadership on the AIRFARE Act. This bill will improve the quality of the travel experience for families with minors and passengers needing mobility assistance by enabling caregivers to seamlessly accompany them to the gate prior to departure. We look forward to further collaboration with Congressman Steube to advance this legislation.” —Jonathon Freye, Executive Director, Association of Value Airlines
Read the full bill text here.
