Starwood Preferred Guest - CEASED OPERATION: Complimentary CLEAR membership for Platinum SPG

Just got this email.. what a nice treat!
On the wings of our newest redemption option, SPG® Flights, SPG has partnered with Clear® to offer Platinum Preferred Guest® members a complimentary membership in this convenient "fast pass through airport security" service.

Enjoy these two new options designed to enhance your air travel experience. Our SPG Flights award lets you avoid the standard restrictions that limit most frequent-flyer rewards by redeeming Starpoints® to fly on more than 350 airlines — all with no blackout dates. And a Clear® membership allows you a fast and secure way of bypassing long security lines at many major airports. Visit SPG.com/flights to learn about using Starpoints to book your next flight.

To accept your complimentary Clear® membership, please validate your SPG member number. This opportunity is only available to Platinum Preferred Guest members, and this exclusive offer expires February 28, 2009.

http://www.spgpromos.com/spgclear/index.cfm
PLEASE NOTE--
This complimentary Clear® membership opportunity is reserved for our Platinum Preferred Guest® members only, and this offer expires February 28, 2009. If you do not cancel your membership, you'll be automatically renewed for a one-year membership at $199. To learn more about Clear®, please visit www.flyclear.com.

However-
Your Clear Account is set by default to auto-renew. You can turn off auto-renew at any time by logging into your Clear account at flyclear.com/myaccount and changing the autorenewal setting in “My Profile”.

Just received this email:

"On the wings of our newest redemption option, SPG® Flights, SPG has partnered with Clear® to offer Platinum Preferred Guest® members a complimentary membership in this convenient "fast pass through airport security" service.

Enjoy these two new options designed to enhance your air travel experience. Our SPG Flights award lets you avoid the standard restrictions that limit most frequent-flyer rewards by redeeming Starpoints® to fly on more than 350 airlines — all with no blackout dates. And a Clear® membership allows you a fast and secure way of bypassing long security lines at many major airports. Visit SPG.com/flights to learn about using Starpoints to book your next flight.

To accept your complimentary Clear® membership, please validate your SPG member number. This opportunity is only available to Platinum Preferred Guest members, and this exclusive offer expires February 28, 2009."

I already have a Clear membership free through Hyatt, which I was able to extend another year free until April 2010. I wonder if I can extend again using this.

I just posted the same thing. You beat me by a few seconds.

This is pretty sweet, especially at JFK T2

I have an existing Clear membership, so I called the number listed. It turns out that the offer is only good for new members, and not for renewal of existing membership. :td:

The automatic renewal policy automatically results in me not signing up. I'm sure after a year I will forget about the renewal.

The automatic renewal policy automatically results in me not signing up. I'm sure after a year I will forget about the renewal.

It's a preference you can set so just do it when you sign up....

The automatic renewal policy automatically results in me not signing up. I'm sure after a year I will forget about the renewal.

You can easily remove the auto renewal in your account settings. Takes 2 seconds.

The automatic renewal policy automatically results in me not signing up. I'm sure after a year I will forget about the renewal.

According to the T&Cs, you can enter your profile on their website and change this. The default is auto-renew, but it can be changed.

that's the program which was in the news not too long ago for losing (http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/08/06/BU2V125HTF.DTL)a laptop wiyh confidential data. this free enrollmenent was available to Hyatt Platinums for a while (I guess before they had suspended it due to lost laptop)

Usually (at least for Marriott) a coupon code gets filled in with a code - can anyone that signs up new confirm this? We can then use a coupon code to renew our membership.

can anyone comment on how CLEAR has worked for them? Is it worth the $200 even though year one is free?

I'm trying to navigate the Flyclear website now but it's slower than the old external modem dial-up days. I hope it's no indication of how quickly they'll be able to "whisk" us through security :)

^^^ Very nice!
Thanks SPG, I'd never pay for clear but I'll take it for free:D

Please see the new call to action for existing Clear members in post #33 of this thread.

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Online Guest Feedback Coordinator
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Too bad clear is not in ORD

^^^ Very nice!
Thanks SPG, I'd never pay for clear but I'll take it for free:D

Me too.

^^^ Very nice!
Thanks SPG, I'd never pay for clear but I'll take it for free:D

+1

^^^ Very nice!
Thanks SPG, I'd never pay for clear but I'll take it for free:D

I agree.

I've seen these "free for a year" deals pop up in many places, so I'm going to wait until I'm travelling to an aiport that actually has a CLEAR line.

Like a PLT match, don't use it just because it's there, wait until you need it. As indicated, it may be a one-time only.

Which one is faster? Clear or Elite line offered by airlines? I've been using my UA and CO elite status to access LAX and havn't waited longer than about 10-15 minutes. I havn't seen any clear machines at LAX. Should I even bother signing up?

Can we get free Zagat's instead?

:);)

Which one is faster? Clear or Elite line offered by airlines? I've been using my UA and CO elite status to access LAX and havn't waited longer than about 10-15 minutes. I havn't seen any clear machines at LAX. Should I even bother signing up?

I've used it once at DCA, where security lines usually are short and CLEAR was a bit faster, but only because TSA fills the Elite line with regular passengers when not busy.

I've also used it once at IAD and it was slower than the Elite security line. The reason being at IAD, the CLEAR passengers share the x-rays with all airline crew and there are only a few xray screeners there.

Offer is valid for Platinum members who are residents of the United States

:td:

I do more domestic travel in the US than I do in Australia.

Oh well. At least I still have my OWE status that usually gets me through the "Elite" line (when not flying First), and my APEC card which gets me through LAX immigration in about 30 seconds. :D

that's the program which was in the news not too long ago for losing (http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/08/06/BU2V125HTF.DTL)a laptop wiyh confidential data. this free enrollmenent was available to Hyatt Platinums for a while (I guess before they had suspended it due to lost laptop)

The CLEAR program got Hyatt Gold Passport is still in effect as I renewed through them last month. When I talked to the CLEAR customer service desk, as long as one is a Gold Passport Diamond or Platnium, and hyatt still participates, you will automatically be renewed. There is a thread at the Hyatt forum titled, "Is CLEAR worth joining" if people would like more information.

Wow....what a great offer from SPG. ^ For those who will benefit, that's a very nice holiday (end of year) gift. :-:

While I would not benefit today (I only pass thru security at IAD and DCA out of the current list), once it is implemented at LAX I'll sign up immediately!

I got an error message telling me to call.




Ironic since I'm trying to take advantage of an offer to reduce delays.

not working for me either

To take advantage of this promotion, you must be referred by the Starwood Preferred Guest registration page.

This Starwood Preferred Guest promotion is unavailable.
We're sorry; you are not currently eligible for this Starwood Preferred Guest® promotion. Please visit SPG.com for other special offers and promotions

Another US centric promotion...come on SPG its a big world out here and some of us (hi Febs) travel alot to the US and do not actually live in the US!

:td:

I do more domestic travel in the US than I do in Australia.

Oh well. At least I still have my OWE status that usually gets me through the "Elite" line (when not flying First), and my APEC card which gets me through LAX immigration in about 30 seconds. :D

I'm the opposite. A US citizen who rarely flies in the US. The only US airport I regularly use is LAX and CLEAR doesn't work there. So I can't see a point in signing up, unless CLEAR is expecting to hit LAX in the next year?

I had to do a bit of research, since http://www.spgpromos.com/spgclear/index.cfm doesn't say anything about this being just an American thing?

...I had to do a bit of research, since http://www.spgpromos.com/spgclear/index.cfm doesn't say anything about this being just an American thing?

Click on the Terms and Conditions link and it says this:

Offer is valid for Platinum members who are residents of the United States only and is non-transferable. Member must redeem offer online by February 28, 2009. This offer is applicable for one complimentary one-year membership in Clear®, which is offered by Verified Identity Pass, Inc. ("Verified") and subject to the Clear® Membership Agreement (which can be viewed at http://www.flyclear.com/apply/apply_membershipagreement.html). Visit flyclear.com/airports for updated information, including the status of openings of Clear® lines at participating airports and a list of additional airports chosen to be part of the program. One complimentary membership will be awarded per Starwood Platinum Preferred Guest. Clear will share the date and status of Clear® enrollment and an identifying number with Starwood for purposes of authorizing this transaction. Your Clear® Account is set by default to auto-renew. You can turn off auto-renew at any time by logging into your Clear® account at flyclear.com/myaccount and changing the auto-renewal setting in "My Profile". If you are already an existing Clear® member, please call 866-848-2415. The SPG® membership number will only be used to verify eligibility of offer. Offer is applicable to individual members only, not to households, groups or Starwood employees. Not responsible for omissions or typographical errors. Starwood reserves the right to discontinue this offer at any time. Starwood Preferred Guest® makes no representations or warranties regarding Clear®, the Clear® card or the services offered by Verified, and shall not be liable for any acts or omissions of Verified or the products or services provided in connection with this offer. Void where prohibited by law. © 2008 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All rights reserved.

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Online Guest Feedback Coordinator
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Who has time for fine print. ;)

Plus nothing in what you posted above says that CLEAR is only used in America. Yes if I click on the CLEAR website I will eventually figure that out. But even there it doesn't explicitly state that CLEAR is US operation. It just talks about service nationwide. It doesn't say what nation.

First, thanks for your patience while I sorted some of this out.

If you are a U. S.-based Platinum member of SPG and tried to register online, either by our solicitation or by just finding the offer, and got a message that seems out of kilter, SPG is asking that you try to register again at a later date (before the February 28, 2009 deadline).

Anyone who is a U. S.-based Platinum member of SPG who happens to be a current member of Clear should call 866-848-2415 and ask them to extend your membership. SPG feels that the previous confusion over this has been rectified. Be sure that they take down your information and they will get back to you to confirm your extension.

Regrettably, this offer is only being made to U. S.-based Platinum members because Clear's stipulation is that only U. S.-based members can participate in their program. SPG can do little about this and its impact upon internationally-based members, but there will be other recognition efforts at a later date which these members will be able to participate. More about that as time goes on.

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Online Guest Feedback Coordinator
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Wow so sad! I can't have this benefit because I'm not US citizen or permenant resident. T.T

Wow so sad! I can't have this benefit because I'm not US citizen or permenant resident. T.T

Really the main person to blame is President Bush. He has presided over the ridiculous security regime that has taken over US airports. It's a systemic problem, but he was still the man in charge. Not that Obama is going to fix it or anything...

But in any case, it's not Starwood's fault.

Which one is faster? Clear or Elite line offered by airlines? I've been using my UA and CO elite status to access LAX and havn't waited longer than about 10-15 minutes. I havn't seen any clear machines at LAX. Should I even bother signing up?

Clear is coming to LAX, but I'm guessing only the Delta terminals. From what i've seen in my travels the Elite line can be faster, but it's good to have the Clear option, especially in SFO where i've seen loooong lines in Int'l A and JFK T4.

Regrettably, this offer is only being made to U. S.-based Platinum members because Clear's stipulation is that only U. S.-based members can participate in their program.

It's not just only US-based members, but only US permanent residents or citizens. I'm US-based, but not a citizen/greencard holder so I can't apply either...

Just use a hotel address.

Before saying Clear is the greatest thing since sliced bread I'll add a note on the quality of the Clear program and the Elite lines that I noticed at DEN last week (and have seen this before during less than busy times). I am 1K and frequently use the elite line, however traveling with wife and 2 kiddos, we got to south security and noted the lines for elite and clear were long and general was very short. I made a note to check for someone who we would have been behind in the lines that was easily identified by what they were wearing. We went through the general line and made it through security before the person I spotted in either the elite line or Clear line even made it to the ID check.

So even if you are part of the program, watch those lines, especially at DEN as the general line can move faster.

That being said, I will be signing up since those 8AM flights from DEN can be killer getting through security.

Nice if you are traveling alone by yourself. I am a "leisure" plat that virtually always travels with my spouse - so this would be a very awkward arrangement to say the least if I would have to leave my wife to go through the regular security line while I "breeze" through the CLEAR line. VERY awkward.

Nice if you are traveling alone by yourself. I am a "leisure" plat that virtually always travels with my spouse - so this would be a very awkward arrangement to say the least if I would have to leave my wife to go through the regular security line while I "breeze" through the CLEAR line. VERY awkward.

How strict are they on that?

I know whenever I use my APEC card and take a second person through (colleague, girlfriend) I usually get told off, but they never turn the second person away. That's in Australasia though...I guess it could be quite different in the US.

Cheers,
- Febs.

Regrettably, this offer is only being made to U. S.-based Platinum members because Clear's stipulation is that only U. S.-based members can participate in their program. SPG can do little about this and its impact upon internationally-based members, but there will be other recognition efforts at a later date which these members will be able to participate. More about that as time goes on.

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Online Guest Feedback Coordinator
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Thanks William... Starwood...a great global Company:p

Regrettably, this offer is only being made to U. S.-based Platinum members because Clear's stipulation is that only U. S.-based members can participate in their program. SPG can do little about this and its impact upon internationally-based members, but there will be other recognition efforts at a later date which these members will be able to participate. More about that as time goes on.

Understandable mate. ^ Wasn't having a go at SPG, moreso the limitations of CLEAR membership. :)

Cheers,
- Febs.

Understandable mate. ^ Wasn't having a go at SPG, moreso the limitations of CLEAR membership. :)

Cheers,
- Febs.

Febs....tell me..have you shaved off your Mo (vember)
The last picture i saw of you you looked like a 1980s porn star;)

Lowly Canadians are not eligible. :td:

I have had CLEAR for the past 6 months and primarily use it in OAK and SFO since they don't have it down here at LAX.

Obviously for free, it's a great deal.

I paid for it mainly because I fly a lot so it seemed like it would be worth it. Every time I used CLEAR there has never been another person using it but it could get a bit slow because they usually only have 2-3 employees working CLEAR.

Also, at OAK the security line is generally very fast. The A-list line never has anyone there either. At SFO the security line is slow and CLEAR is definitely worth ti.

I believe they are very strict about only allowing the person with the CLEAR card to use it (no spouses, etc.) because this is the security check. You bypass the part of security where they check your ID since you have already provided this information to CLEAR.

Basically, if you travel a lot and CLEAR is available at your home airport, I think it's worth it. Some people do complain that you have to give up a lot of personal information (retina scan, fingerprints, etc.) so if you're wary about that, don't do it. Personally, I don't really care.

Really the main person to blame is President Bush. He has presided over the ridiculous security regime that has taken over US airports. It's a systemic problem, but he was still the man in charge. Not that Obama is going to fix it or anything...

But in any case, it's not Starwood's fault.

So the Messiah will be to blame beginning next month? :rolleyes:

While I do not have any use for CLEAR, I appreciate the fact that Starwood is expanding the SPG program while many other loyalty programs have lost value over the past few months/years (airline programs, AMEX, etc).

I believe this is a case where the international folks shouldn't be hating on SPG. I believe it's a CLEAR requirement that you have to be a US citizen or green card holder to register with CLEAR. What good would it do for SPG to give you one year of free membership to something you can't sign up for anyway? Blame CLEAR (who in turn would blame TSA who in turn would blame Bush who in turn would blame Osama Bin Laden who in turn would blame the USA)...

I could be wrong on this so someone correct me if I am.

Rock.

I am one of the Hyatt diamonds that received a year free and its been ok as the main problem is that its just not at very many places

I've used it at DEN and it was the shortest means to get through
at MCO and took my kids with me through it and this was by far the most time saving place I ever used it
Ive used it at DCA and IAD and those were never a wait. someone said you share it at iad but for me they stopped the crew and let me cut right through

im sure ive used it other places, i just cant recall right now

the best benefit is at MCO in my opinon and its even better if you have kids

Didn't get the e-mail but not something I want anyway. I have an e-gate pass for DXB and at SFO international terminal there is hardly ever a long wait. With less people travelling and by strategically choosing my airlines of choice, I haven't had to wait in a line long enough to even make me consider CLEAR. Maybe if it applied to FCO which can be a very long wait...

Wow...I must be using my clear card at different times than the rest of this board

I think it is the most essential thing in the world as a FF--its worth more to me than my CO elite status some days (if I'm on an RJ, what does status get me???)

At EWR, for terminal B, Clear saves 20-30 minutes in the morning since the NW and DL gates have no elite line.

At MCO, it will consistenly save >20 minutes

At LGA, central terminal, prob 10 minutes every time I use the card

At DCA its a good 5-10 minutes. At IAD, there are problems since the employee line jams up the Clear line.

I don't find it valuable at ATL, but have talked to Clear and they claim it will get better

All in all, Clear makes my security wait predictable which means I can cut my flights much closer. I typically get to the airport 30 minutes prior to a flight when Clear is at the airport and 45+ minutes when its regular security.

I fly >150 segments a year, so thats a lot of time (15 minutes * 150 segments is about 40 hours a year of my time not spent making fun of how idiotic our "security" system is)

Does anyone know if the 1 year starts from the time you sign-up online or when you do your ID check at the kiosk at the airport?

I don't care for this -- whenever they come close to closing down perhaps they will be selling customer information instead of merely losing it or surrendering it.

The lousy economy cannot be good for their business and standard priced customer enrollment.

I've had only positive experiences with Clear. It's saved me a ton of time at IAD and DCA. It makes my airport preparation completely predictable. I just have to worry about DC traffic.

For those that aren't aware of the program, you can view some very vocal criticism of the program in this FT thread:

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/travel-safety-security/747360-registered-traveler-fly-clear-merged-threads.html

Glad to hear they've made this work for existing Clear members as well.

Does anyone know if the 1 year starts from the time you sign-up online or when you do your ID check at the kiosk at the airport?

I've had mine for quite sometime. As I recall, the year started when the card was issued, so even after your biometrics are taken.

I've used it at DEN and it was the shortest means to get through at MCO and took my kids with me through it and this was by far the most time saving place I ever used it

I didn't know that you could take other passengers with you through the Clear lane. Is that only for kids or can I take my wife through with me?

I didn't know that you could take other passengers with you through the Clear lane. Is that only for kids or can I take my wife through with me?

Looks like only children under 12 (http://www.flyclear.com/faq/).

Some people do complain that you have to give up a lot of personal information (retina scan, fingerprints, etc.) so if you're wary about that, don't do it.

This doesn't affect your point, but VIP collects "non-invasive iris imaging (http://www.flyclear.com/how/how_technology.html)" and not retinal scans.

I don't care for this -- whenever they come close to closing down perhaps they will be selling customer information instead of merely losing it or surrendering it.

Agreed. As little as I trust the government with such data, I'd trust private entities even less.

so i read william's post 33 correctly, i can call in and verify my spg account for another year of clear? i already had it extended recently through hyatt, so would this replace that extension or add on to it? difference being an extra two months or an extra year!

Do you have to make an appointment for the final fingerprinting and such (like how for NEXUS the only appointment times for the fingerprint/iris scan are 6 months out), or is it on a walk-in basis?

Clear is not offered in STL, but I'll be passing through SFO in a couple weeks and might take this because it's free and who knows where my 2009 assignments will take me.

I'm an SPG Plat, but haven't gotten this CLEAR invitation by email. Should I read into that at all?

I was status matched last year, and this year have 29 credited stays, but only 24 actual stays. I have one more booked for New Years.

I'm an SPG Plat, but haven't gotten this CLEAR invitation by email. Should I read into that at all?

Are you opted in to receive emails from SPG? If you are, did you check your spam file? If it ended up in your spam folder, you may want to whitelist SPG by adding starwood@starwood.delivery.net to your address book.

I was status matched last year, and this year have 29 credited stays, but only 24 actual stays. I have one more booked for New Years.

This, and the fact that you did not get an email, would have no effect on your being able to register online, as long as you are Platinum and are a citizen U. S. resident.

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Online Guest Feedback Coordinator
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

so i read william's post 33 correctly, i can call in and verify my spg account for another year of clear?

i already had it extended recently through hyatt, so would this replace that extension or add on to it? difference being an extra two months or an extra year!

Clear will start the process and verify. They can also answer any questions that you may have in regard to this. You can reach them at 866-848-2415.

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Online Guest Feedback Coordinator
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

so i read william's post 33 correctly, i can call in and verify my spg account for another year of clear? i already had it extended recently through hyatt, so would this replace that extension or add on to it? difference being an extra two months or an extra year!

I did the same as well as getting 3 extra months for referring 3 friends, so I have gotten 27 months for free. I am almost embarrassed to call and see if I can get another 12 months free, but if you call and it works, then I will try to overcome my embarrassment and give them a call. :rolleyes:

I started using clear because of Hyatt status, and found that it saved me time and making flights in SFO several times. I actually paid to renew during a recent discounted promotion. So, naturally, I was a bit upset to read that this was now a new benefit of *wood.

However, I phoned them up, explained the situation, and they took my SPG # and stated that I would be phoned back to verify in a day or two, but that there should be no problem in extending my membership for another year.

Very nice on both side - CLEAR and Starwood for this.

Does anyone know if the 1 year starts from the time you sign-up online or when you do your ID check at the kiosk at the airport?

I just signed up online and they said the term will start once enrollment is complete (ie you show up at the enrollment center and get your eyes photographed)

Not sure if that portion needs to be done by the end of Feb or not... I'll be in IAD on monday (they have a center there), but my passport isn't with me... :(

can anyone comment on how CLEAR has worked for them? Is it worth the $200 even though year one is free?

Try it for free for the first year, then decide yourself.

... if you call and it works, then I will try to overcome my embarrassment and give them a call. :rolleyes:

Worked for me. I also had the Hyatt extension.

I just need to get to one of the Clear locations now for the eye scan. Great offer from SPG! ^

Nice if you are traveling alone by yourself. I am a "leisure" plat that virtually always travels with my spouse - so this would be a very awkward arrangement to say the least if I would have to leave my wife to go through the regular security line while I "breeze" through the CLEAR line. VERY awkward.But whereas you might breeze thru clear and she is in the longer line, I'm sure you are the generous spouse who would always give her the upgrade if only one seat in F/C is available. ^

Been there, done that! ;)

I didn't notice yesterday's Press Release (http://www.businesswire.com/portal/site/home/permalink/?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId=20081218005206&newsLang=en) mentioned in this thread.

"SPG® has teamed up with Clear®, the airport security fast pass, to reward its Platinum members with Clear® cards, complimentary for one year. SPG Gold and Preferred members will receive three-month Clear card trial offers."

"The Clear card offers will be sent to Starwood Preferred Guest members beginning in December, and registration can be completed through February 28, 2009."

A thread title adjustment might be a good idea, though I'm not sure how to make it short and sweet. Maybe...
PROMO: CLEAR membership. 1-year for Plat. 3-months for others.

Personally, I haven't seen much value in me having it since I rarely am checking into one of the participating airports. But at least the 3-month trial would allow my wife to get it for ski season. Otherwise, CLEAR seems useless when we travel together. Doubt we'll care, though. And if I don't see a need for it, I won't bother wasting SPG's money to get me one nor my time and trouble to complete the registration.

As a current SPG Platinum, US Permanent Resident & current member of Clear Registered traveler, I was able to call up the number William had posted (866-848-2415) & add on an additional 1 year of membership to my existing Clear Account.

Best part is, my entire phone call, start to finish was 5 minutes & 3 seconds. I thought that was pretty darn good. Any time I call up a credit card, or rewards program, or Utility Company, etc, I am always prepared for at least a 15-20 minute conversation.

I signed up for Clear in May of this year, & my account is now set to expire on May 4th 2011. Thank you Hyatt Plat, Marriott plat, & now SPG Plat for 3 years of Clear. My total out of pocket cost $0.

Giddy Up,
Todd

"Global Entry" program membership for immigration would be far more useful to me.

Do you have to make an appointment for the final fingerprinting and such (like how for NEXUS the only appointment times for the fingerprint/iris scan are 6 months out), or is it on a walk-in basis?



No appt necessary. In my case, I went to the Grand Central Terminal location at 7:30AM on a weekday (after the promotion was announced). No wait with two CLEAR agents who knew what they were doing. In and out in ten minutes.

Wow...I must be using my clear card at different times than the rest of this board

I think it is the most essential thing in the world as a FF--its worth more to me than my CO elite status some days (if I'm on an RJ, what does status get me???)

At EWR, for terminal B, Clear saves 20-30 minutes in the morning since the NW and DL gates have no elite line.

At MCO, it will consistenly save >20 minutes

At LGA, central terminal, prob 10 minutes every time I use the card

At DCA its a good 5-10 minutes. At IAD, there are problems since the employee line jams up the Clear line.

I don't find it valuable at ATL, but have talked to Clear and they claim it will get better

All in all, Clear makes my security wait predictable which means I can cut my flights much closer. I typically get to the airport 30 minutes prior to a flight when Clear is at the airport and 45+ minutes when its regular security.

I fly >150 segments a year, so thats a lot of time (15 minutes * 150 segments is about 40 hours a year of my time not spent making fun of how idiotic our "security" system is)

I wouldn't say it's the most essential thing, but it's been pretty damn useful.

I saved at least 10 minutes at JFK T4/VX Thursday. I'm sure it would be much more later this week.

Busy times at SFO/SJC it's saved 10-25 minutes (depending on time of day.)

That's right, you heard it..shame SPG marketing shame:td:Some of us do not live in the US but spend over 100 nights/year on business travel within the US alone.As a world citizen who is not a US citizen I get no benefit from this offer:mad::mad:
Another example of being too US centric....it is indeed a big world out here so can someone at SPG Marketing wake up please:mad::mad:

That's right, you heard it..shame SPG marketing shame:td:Some of us do not live in the US but spend over 100 nights/year on business travel within the US alone.As a world citizen who is not a US citizen I get no benefit from this offer:mad::mad:
Another example of being too US centric....it is indeed a big world out here so can someone at SPG Marketing wake up please:mad::mad:

I know we are at over 70 posts in this thread, but you really should read it before you make such an angry post. It is a US Government decision to deny you access to this program. It is not Starwood's fault at all.

That's right, you heard it..shame SPG marketing shame:td:Some of us do not live in the US but spend over 100 nights/year on business travel within the US alone.As a world citizen who is not a US citizen I get no benefit from this offer:mad::mad:
Another example of being too US centric....it is indeed a big world out here so can someone at SPG Marketing wake up please:mad::mad:

Huh? SPG Marketing shouldn't take advantage of an opportunity to partner with a company that's trying to elevate its (US only) business because YOU aren't elegible? It should walk away from a partnering program that will benefit thousands of US-based customers because the partner benefit doesn't extend worldwide?

Did you even read William's posts? Sorry, I'm rarely critical of other FT posts, but this one is just silly.

I know we are at over 70 posts in this thread, but you really should read it before you make such an angry post. It is a US Government decision to deny you access to this program. It is not Starwood's fault at all.

Allow me to retort...
Yes I have read all posts and I am aware of the T&C's for the offer. My point is that SPG should be looking at worldwide offers to benefit the maximum number of SPG elite members.We have seen limited offers all too often Stimpy. My records show I stayed 83 nights YTD in US based W, St Regis and Westin branded Hotels...probably more than most US Plats...but no benefit. Imagine if a really great offer came out and it was only for non US based Plats...would you hear any complaints:D:D

Allow me to retort...
Yes I have read all posts and I am aware of the T&C's for the offer. My point is that SPG should be looking at worldwide offers to benefit the maximum number of SPG elite members.

Well perhaps you should look at this sticky http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/starwood-preferred-guest/900423-coming-soon-spgs-night-after-night-q1-promotion.html which is the next major Starwood promo. It is open to everyone world-wide.

Well perhaps you should look at this sticky http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/starwood-preferred-guest/900423-coming-soon-spgs-night-after-night-q1-promotion.html which is the next major Starwood promo. It is open to everyone world-wide.

Looks a good offer...imagine if the 1st quarter offer was for only non US based members...would you hear any complaints??

Delightful!

Looks a good offer...imagine if the 1st quarter offer was for only non US based members...would you hear any complaints??

Companies do geographically targeted marketing and promotions all the time, what's the big deal? Clear is only available to U.S. residents and there's nothing SPG can do to change that. It's not as if this promotion is in lieu of a promotion aimed at all SPG members - it's just an additional promotion.

Just an odd argument to make and strange that someone would be so upset by it.

Looks a good offer...imagine if the 1st quarter offer was for only non US based members...would you hear any complaints??

Well, I for one have long wished I could benefit from the Platinum Privilege Programme that exists only in Oceana/Pacific Rim these days. That program is very "up my alley" and I'd love to be able to have some similar program available to me in the US. 15 years ago, there was a similar program and I used it like crazy.

But, I understand that these days it just operates in your part of the world and I have to accept that.

Everyone should also have a very clear understanding of how this new free year of CLEAR membership program works -- you can bet your bippee that Starwood is spending either nothing or precious little to make this promotion available. CLEAR is needing to boost their membership rolls at once in order to become profitable and negotiated a deal with SPG to extend a free trial year to Plat guests with the understanding that the default setting would be to AUTO-RENEW memberships at the end of the 12 months.

This makes the SPG program seem wonderfully valuable in the eyes of the travelling consumer, it costs SPG essentially nothing, and it helps CLEAR move forward with their business plan.

To pass up opportunities like this one that would appeal to surely more than 75% of the current global SPG members would be foolish, no? I can certainly appreciate the frustration of those overseas who are often not eligible for all of the promotions that we members in the US are, but since that's where most of us reside, it simply makes sense that most of the offers would apply to US residents.

Just my $00000.02.

Happy Holidays, everyone. Safe travels.

Well, I for one have long wished I could benefit from the Platinum Privilege Programme that exists only in Oceana/Pacific Rim these days. That program is very "up my alley" and I'd love to be able to have some similar program available to me in the US. 15 years ago, there was a similar program and I used it like crazy.

.

http://privilege.starwoodhotels.com/ is a paid subscription and never given as a Plat benefit at no charge.I used to be a member but with so many situations where you could not use it it was not worth the subscription fee.

[QUOTE=sbtinme;10943742]
Everyone should also have a very clear understanding of how this new free year of CLEAR membership program works -- you can bet your bippee that Starwood is spending either nothing or precious little to make this promotion available. CLEAR is needing to boost their membership rolls at once in order to become profitable and negotiated a deal with SPG to extend a free trial year to Plat guests with the understanding that the default setting would be to AUTO-RENEW memberships at the end of the 12 months.

This makes the SPG program seem wonderfully valuable in the eyes of the travelling consumer, it costs SPG essentially nothing, and it helps CLEAR move forward with their business plan.

To pass up opportunities like this one that would appeal to surely more than 75% of the current global SPG members would be foolish, no? I can certainly appreciate the frustration of those overseas who are often not eligible for all of the promotions that we members in the US are, but since that's where most of us reside, it simply makes sense that most of the offers would apply to US residents.

QUOTE] Why it is a nice offer it does not help me much. My home airport does not do clear. If they had more locations I would do it, but if they had more locations they would not need to boost there numbers. It is a chicken and egg thing.

http://privilege.starwoodhotels.com/ is a paid subscription and never given as a Plat benefit at no charge.

Absolutely so! Just like the old North American Sheraton Plat Priv program. There was an annual fee, but the program was fantastic for the ten years or so it lasted here in the US/Canada.

My point was that, with almost any global consumer organization, certain offers and incentive programs will exist for consumer groups in certain geographies due to myriad reasons that are well beyond the control of the consumer and, occasionally, beyond the control of the consumer organization itself. I very much wish that *wood offered a Plat Privilege Program again in the US, but they no longer do.

In this instance, the CLEAR program is of substantial benefit for a core group of SPG Plats who are able to use it. I'm one of the folks who may never be able to enjoy this program since I fly mostly in and out of smaller, regional airports. However, my closest colleague at work is thrilled with this offer since he was about to purchase an annual membership for CLEAR in January. So, as always YMMV.

In this instance, the CLEAR program is of substantial benefit for a core group of SPG Plats who are able to use it. I'm one of the folks who may never be able to enjoy this program since I fly mostly in and out of smaller, regional airports. However, my closest colleague at work is thrilled with this offer since he was about to purchase an annual membership for CLEAR in January. So, as always YMMV.

I guess some of the international SPG members, like myself, can get a little annoyed at the number of US only or North America only promotions that Hotels offer from time to time.I am not anti CLEAR, I would like to take up the benefit. As a frequent US visitor I am used to being fingerprinted and photographed and if I regularly pass thru why does the TSA not then let me in on a CLEAR pass??

I guess some of the international SPG members, like myself, can get a little annoyed at the number of US only or North America only promotions that Hotels offer from time to time.I am not anti CLEAR, I would like to take up the benefit. As a frequent US visitor I am used to being fingerprinted and photographed and if I regularly pass thru why does the TSA not then let me in on a CLEAR pass??

It does work both ways, however. I'm sure many U.S. members wished the annual SPG / Mastercard promotion for two free weekend nights in Asia / Pacific after three Asia / Pacific stays wasn't limited to that region. (And the two weekend nights is likely worth more to most than than a one year CLEAR subscription.)

Has anyone ever considered that this is a promotion that is put on by the Clear company? Think an American Airlines free SPG Gold program or free Delta SPG Gold program and a myriad of other products that increase SPG and Starwood visibility to members without any cost or minimal cost to SPG and Starwood. Now after doing my research the requirements that are put out by clear are that the applicant must be a US Citizen.

This is a requirement mandated by the Transportation Security Administration! Not by Clear. Not by SPG. Not by Starwood.

So although it sucks it is not available to non US Citizens, one has to realize that this is just like any other free program. Sorry if you're not a American Airlines member then no free SPG Gold for you. If you're not an Asian Pacific member than no you can't get the Platinum Privilege Programme as aforementioned even if it is a paid subscription. For those who want to see the TSA requirements then it's as follows. http://www.tsa.gov/approach/rt/index.shtm
Under RT Program Documentation click on Click Here to read/download the RT Security, Privacy, and Compliance Standards for Sponsoring Entities and Service Providers V3.1 Look under Sec1:25, 3.4.2 Enrollment Eligibility. 2nd Paragraph reads as follows: The SE/SP shall accept applications from applicants who provide proof of idenitity and proof they area citizens, US nationals, or lawful permanent residents of the United States.

Ok that's my story... took me a while to find this on the TSA website but it's there. Hope this appeases all our of fellow Platinum members regardless of nationality.

Are you opted in to receive emails from SPG? If you are, did you check your spam file?


William: I'm opted in to receive SPG e-statements and surveys, but not marketing promotions (a separate check box; I just checked). Could that be why I wasn't offered this promotion? And will it be mentioned in the month e-statements, perhaps?

Nothing in the spam folder.

To pass up opportunities like this one that would appeal to surely more than 75% of the current global SPG members would be foolish, no? I can certainly appreciate the frustration of those overseas who are often not eligible for all of the promotions that we members in the US are, but since that's where most of us reside, it simply makes sense that most of the offers would apply to US residents.



You may or may not be correct on the 75% figure..but this is no time for hubris or the appearance of it.

Useless for me, even though I'm in the US.

@:-) Can I opt for 5,686 Starpoints instead? :D

Thanks SPG. Ill try it out of SFO in Jan

William: I'm opted in to receive SPG e-statements and surveys, but not marketing promotions (a separate check box; I just checked). Could that be why I wasn't offered this promotion? And will it be mentioned in the month e-statements, perhaps?

Nothing in the spam folder.

Quite possibly.

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Online Guest Feedback Coordinator
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Anyone else getting this error?

To take advantage of this promotion, you must be referred by the Starwood Preferred Guest registration page.

Even though I'm linking from spg.com?

Yep, keep getting the same error!

Yep, keep getting the same error!

Me too! :(

What do they say when you call them?

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Online Guest Feedback Coordinator
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Anyone hear back from Clear about extending current membership? I understand they are verifying SPG eligibilities, but not sure if the process has been completed.

Anyone hear back from Clear about extending current membership? I understand they are verifying SPG eligibilities, but not sure if the process has been completed.

I'm interested in this too

I'm a Clear member from either my Marriott Plat or my Hyatt Diamond (Dont' recall which one I used) and my Clear is good thru sometime in March or April. I don't want to pay to keep this even though its in my home airport (IAD), its just not at enough other airports to justify its use.. however if I could get the SPG referral to renew another year gratis then I would jump on it..

Same error - tried to resolve w/ cust service - here's the latest...

Dear

Following my email response to you earlier today regarding the issues you have had in registering for the CLEAR promotion, I would like to update you on the situation.


I reported this to our Web Team and was informed that there have been some technical glitches with regards to this offer and CLEAR’s website. It looks like when the offer dropped it caused a great spike in traffic to them and their systems may not have been able to handle it. This issue specifically was forwarded to CLEAR yesterday.


In the meantime, if you are already a CLEAR member, you can call 866-848-2415 to request the extension to your membership. If you are not already a member, we would really appreciate your patience while we, with CLEAR, work through some technical issues. You can try again to take advantage of this offer later today or in the near future. This offer is open until February 28, 2009, so you are not obligated to register immediately.


Once again, let me apologize for any inconvenience that this situation has caused you. We very much appreciate your patience through all of this. And above all, thank you for your feedback. It is from this feedback we receive that enables us to improve our service and the experience of our guests.


Have a great weekend!


We appreciate your continued loyalty to the Starwood Preferred Guest program and welcome any further questions or concerns. Please feel free to contact us at starwood.preferred.guest@starwoodhotels.com.


Best Regards,

Specialist, E-Communications Department
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide [/I][/I]
Being ongoing issue w/ the link SPG provides

Anyone hear back from Clear about extending current membership? I understand they are verifying SPG eligibilities, but not sure if the process has been completed.

Clear has told me that mine will be extended and it's just not been completed yet. When I log on it still shows my 2010 expiry, instead of the 2011 that the SPG promo will give me. I called when the promo first came out and they told me it will take a few weeks to see the extension.

That's right, you heard it..shame SPG marketing shame:td:Some of us do not live in the US but spend over 100 nights/year on business travel within the US alone.As a world citizen who is not a US citizen I get no benefit from this offer:mad::mad:
Another example of being too US centric....it is indeed a big world out here so can someone at SPG Marketing wake up please:mad::mad:

OK. Now that you've taken care of the really easy part -- the quad-mad-smilie rant -- it's time to step up and provide some real value and suggestions to SPG, beyond "shame" and "wake up please."

Based on your posts, you likely have some unique perspectives based on Australian residency and 100+ nights per year in the US. What would your insights say should be a comparable, residency-neutral offering that SPG should have been/should be considering?

The Lurkers (and others from SPG) monitor things here on FT quite closely so the more constructive the feedback, the better.

OK. Now that you've taken care of the really easy part -- the quad-mad-smilie rant -- it's time to step up and provide some real value and suggestions to SPG, beyond "shame" and "wake up please."

Based on your posts, you likely have some unique perspectives based on Australian residency and 100+ nights per year in the US. What would your insights say should be a comparable, residency-neutral offering that SPG should have been/should be considering?

The Lurkers (and others from SPG) monitor things here on FT quite closely so the more constructive the feedback, the better.

It is also noted as I posted earlier in this thread that neither SPG or Clear can do anything about the US residency requirements. This is a TSA mandated requirement.

Clear has told me that mine will be extended and it's just not been completed yet. When I log on it still shows my 2010 expiry, instead of the 2011 that the SPG promo will give me. I called when the promo first came out and they told me it will take a few weeks to see the extension.

Same here: called weeks ago and still don't show the extension but I'll give it a little longer. CLEAR has exceptional customer service in my experience so I'm sure it'll be taken care of or they'll respond with haste if I call to follow up.

It is also noted as I posted earlier in this thread that neither SPG or Clear can do anything about the US residency requirements. This is a TSA mandated requirement.

Agreed -- and my point.

Trying to get the OP to provide more constructive feedback to SPG. As you and many others have noted, something along the lines of "make it work for non-US residents" isn't an option, because of government (not SPG) requirements.

I'm interested in this too

I'm a Clear member from either my Marriott Plat or my Hyatt Diamond (Dont' recall which one I used) and my Clear is good thru sometime in March or April. I don't want to pay to keep this even though its in my home airport (IAD), its just not at enough other airports to justify its use.. however if I could get the SPG referral to renew another year gratis then I would jump on it..

Ditto! I would do the same but need an answer.

Just add another points here.

You need to be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident to qualify for CLEAR membership.

Was this promo targeted to only 'certain' Platinum Preferreds??-- as it is now Jan 2 and this Platinum hasn't heard anything from Starwood :confused::(

Was this promo targeted to only 'certain' Platinum Preferreds??-- as it is now Jan 2 and this Platinum hasn't heard anything from Starwood :confused::(

Some Platinums received an email from Starwood others didn't. You can reach it at either this link... http://www.spgpromos.com/spgclear/index.cfm or just log onto your SPG.com account and it should be on the bottom left corner of your screen.

Allow me to retort...
Yes I have read all posts and I am aware of the T&C's for the offer. My point is that SPG should be looking at worldwide offers to benefit the maximum number of SPG elite members.We have seen limited offers all too often Stimpy. My records show I stayed 83 nights YTD in US based W, St Regis and Westin branded Hotels...probably more than most US Plats...but no benefit. Imagine if a really great offer came out and it was only for non US based Plats...would you hear any complaints:D:D

Actually this situation is quite understandable. I think it is obvious why the TSA would restrict this and not a bad thing that SPG offers it to members who qualify. To say that SPG should not offer it to anyone because that company cannot qualify everyone in the world is ridiculous.

If your country has such a program like flyclear.com available, why don't you call SPG and ask if you can get a complimentary membership in it?

I could understand if you were complaining about a targetted offer, where SPG or the SPG Amex hand pick certain members for the offer and not others for their own marketing reasons. It seems that they have gotten away from that, or perhaps I am never targetted for any of them.

Really the main person to blame is President Bush. He has presided over the ridiculous security regime that has taken over US airports. It's a systemic problem, but he was still the man in charge. Not that Obama is going to fix it or anything...

But in any case, it's not Starwood's fault.

Let's just blame Bush for everything, that seems to be the de facto thing to do. It also takes congress to pass a law, thankfully the president is not a dictator.

A country has every right to make things quicker or easier for its own citizens who it can track easier. I have travelled to many countries where passing through security or customs is easier for its own citizens and I have no complaints - when I am a guest in another country I act like one. I have also seen situations where a country charges higher prices to foreigners than locals - would you imagine the complaints if the US did that? I am travelling to Argentina this year and the domestic flights operated by Aerolineas Argentinas cost about double for me than an Argentine.

One point I will agree with: it is not SPG's fault. At least the targetting makes some kind of sense.

Has anyone had the original link work? As of a minute ago, still get the error discussed earlier.

Has anyone had the original link work? As of a minute ago, still get the error discussed earlier.

I just went through the process with no errors on the site this morning

I signed up online about 4 months ago but haven't been able to get to a CLEAR center for ID verification, retinal scan, MRI, etc.
I just made SPG Platinum.
Can I claim the first year of CLEAR because I haven't anything but a CLEAR registration#? They haven't charged me anything yet.

I guess some of the international SPG members, like myself, can get a little annoyed at the number of US only or North America only promotions that Hotels offer from time to time.I am not anti CLEAR, I would like to take up the benefit. As a frequent US visitor I am used to being fingerprinted and photographed and if I regularly pass thru why does the TSA not then let me in on a CLEAR pass??

Become a US citizen. The way I see it, is that this is a US citizens benefit.

for another one year extension... do I just call clear's cust svc number? what do I tell them.. I'm an SPG plat.. give them my number and thats it????

for another one year extension... do I just call clear's cust svc number? what do I tell them.. I'm an SPG plat.. give them my number and thats it????

Hi TrojanHorse,

Please call CLEAR at 866-848-2415 for further assistance as only new memberships can be processed via the website.

apguest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

I signed up online about 4 months ago but haven't been able to get to a CLEAR center for ID verification, retinal scan, MRI, etc.
I just made SPG Platinum.
Can I claim the first year of CLEAR because I haven't anything but a CLEAR registration#? They haven't charged me anything yet.

Hi coastda,

Do call CLEAR at 866-848-2415 to find out about this as well.

I have no information on this at the moment.

apguest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Hi TrojanHorse,

Please call CLEAR at 866-848-2415 for further assistance as only new memberships can be processed via the website.

apguest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

thank you much, will do that today

Ok just called a few moments ago

Clear after going through some verifications asked for my phone number and SPG number; she said it would extend my Clear membership by one more year once starwood validates the platinum status

I said how will I know when its validated, she says that I will receive a call back stating validation. I asked how long and she said 48-72 hours.

Assuming this works as planned; I'm good for another 16 ~ months

I'm only Preferred Plus, and I got an offer for 3 free months of Clear. I'm not going to bother, but it shows (to me) that they're getting desparate for takers.

For those waiting to hear back about the extension of current Clear memberships:

Just got an email confirming the one-year renewal.

Thanks OP and Starwoods.

For those waiting to hear back about the extension of current Clear memberships:

Just got an email confirming the one-year renewal.

Thanks OP and Starwoods.

How long between the phone call for the extension and the email?

How long between the phone call for the extension and the email?

I called on the 17th when this thread started to request the extension and just got the email today. So definitely not 48-72 hrs as previously stated. However, with the holidays, I am not surprised.

Apparently, Clear is overwhelmed with requests so they are backlogged with the verification process.

Hope this info helps.

I guess I win the prize in this thread, since I'm already paid through 6/2012. I guess it's the Booby prize since I seem to be the only one who pays for it! My extension should bring me to 6/2013.

I'm only Preferred Plus, and I got an offer for 3 free months of Clear. I'm not going to bother, but it shows (to me) that they're getting desparate for takers.

I went ahead and did it, though I don't plan to take more than one round-trip in the next 3 months, and will only be able to use it on the outbound. I figured, at the very least, I might get an offer for a deep discount when I cancel after the trial period.

In case anyone is wondering where their Clear cards are (like I was), it looks like if you are a new member via SPG, they are putting the cards in special SPG sleeves, which is causing a delay.

I got scanned almost 2 weeks ago and based on my call today I wont receive my card for at least another 10 business days.

In case anyone is wondering where their Clear cards are (like I was), it looks like if you are a new member via SPG, they are putting the cards in special SPG sleeves, which is causing a delay.

I got scanned almost 2 weeks ago and based on my call today I wont receive my card for at least another 10 business days.
Thanks. I got scanned two weeks ago today, and expected far better turnaround time. That is a shame.

Good thing I'm not planning on travelling in the next 4 weeks...

Any word on whether they're going to extend the trial memberships because of the delays?

Dear TrojanHorse,

Thank you for renewing your Clear membership! You have successfully renewed for a 1 year term. Your new expiration date is XYZ 01, 2010.

Please print this page for your records. This email serves as your renewal receipt.

Order Summary
Term Selected: 1 year membership term
Promotions Applied: $179.00
Total Charge: $.00

I just got this email, as an SPG Gold..Nice promo I guess, I could see using it fairly often but since there's no Clear at my home airport, some utility is already lost. Then again, I hope to make SPG Plat this year and a free membership is definitely better than 199$ which is the rate the email said I'd be renewed at after 3 months.

Just got my email invite today as an SPG low-life.

Being a starwood Plt and also having a Clear card for past 11 months I am a bit surprised I have never received anything from Starwood. The only way I would have known was this thread!
hey Lurker! what's up with that? Did you guys find out that I have 5 nights this year in Hilton's vs you guys?

Got an email offer on Jan 14 for 3 months free, I'm Starwood Gold. But the link isn't working, even from the Starwood site. Anyone with this problem? The clear site seems to be telling me I'm not Plat and so I'm not eligible...

...hey Lurker! what's up with that?

Man, there must be a hundred reasons why you might not have gotten the email. A couple of my favorites are:

1) we sent it, but it ended up in your spam folder
2) you aren't opted in to receive emails from us

Did you guys find out that I have 5 nights this year in Hilton's vs you guys?

I doubt that very seriously. But, thanks for spilling the beans so I can note it on your account. Just kidding. ;)

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Online Guest Feedback Coordinator
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Dear TrojanHorse,

Thank you for renewing your Clear membership! You have successfully renewed for a 1 year term. Your new expiration date is XYZ 01, 2010.

Please print this page for your records. This email serves as your renewal receipt.

Order Summary
Term Selected: 1 year membership term
Promotions Applied: $179.00
Total Charge: $.00

The other beni you'll get from renewing is they should mail you a new clear card with your photo on it (assuming you haven't gotten that yet). This way you will no longer need the card + ID.

....it has been a month since I went to the CLEAR kiosk and showed proper ID and got picture and fingerprint. I called CLEAR about two weeks ago and they said membership cleared TSA. Have any new members received thier card under the SPG program?

i called today and even though i completed memebership over a month ago they said i would not recieve the card for another week. They calimed a delay cause of holidays

Completed my id scan before departing for Spain on December 23. Today I received an email that I would receive my CLEAR card in 7 to 10 days. Took a bit longer than expected, but I understand the holidays may have slowed the process down.

They must be dealing with approvals in batches. I got the following email today:
*************************************
You Are Clear!

Your Clear application has been approved. Your Clear Card was put in the mail today, and you should expect to receive it in three to ten days. Once you receive your Card, you will be able to use it immediately at any registered traveler airport in the US.

Finally got the time to get through to Clear directly - the link sent via SPG has worked for ~50% of those that got it per the Clear Rep - filled out the required info via Clear - had to call the next day to get the free year via SPG, but it worked....now just need to get to Indy to get it done!

rcvd an offer for 3 free months. Not sure how it works, website doesnt spell it out - is there a magical entrance where you slide your Clear card??

I also went to a kiosk more than a month ago and still have yet to receive the card. When I noticed my expiration date was established for Dec '09 I phoned customer srvc to explain I still have yet to receive the card.

The agent I spoke with said the delay was due to Starwood requesting a special design on the Clear cards they are funding. She said to call once I receive the card and they would roll back the expiration date accordingly.

So they say that my card is in the mail. I am glad that I signed up with time before my next flight since it does take some time. One bummer is that with the SPG program, my wife does not get a membership, so I would have to pay for one for her, or else we use separate lines at security. I could at least take all of the bags through to save time.

The other beni you'll get from renewing is they should mail you a new clear card with your photo on it (assuming you haven't gotten that yet). This way you will no longer need the card + ID.

I have the photo card already which came as a replacement for the original one that I lost.

rcvd an offer for 3 free months. Not sure how it works, website doesnt spell it out - is there a magical entrance where you slide your Clear card??

Check here to find the locations at each airport. It is not consistent so you want to learn where to find them.

http://www.flyclear.com/where/where_airports.html

There's usually some signs around giving you direction but you're better off checking the website first (particularly because not every terminal at every airport they serve has Clear lanes).

As you approach the area, you'll see lit up blue cubes (like the logo you see on the top, left of the website). Once there, attendants will take over and guide you through the steps, assist with luggage and what goes on the belt, and get you to the front of the "public" line if that's necessary.

I just went through the Clear process with the SPG offer and it was very fast.

1/15 - went to in person registration at airport
1/20 - received e-mail that I have been approved
1/22 - received clear card in email.

Also, the expiration date is 1/22. I am very impressed, especially after what I was expecting after reading the previous posts.

Thanks SPG!

I got my card on Tuesday. The whole process took about 2 weeks. Not bad.

The agent I spoke with said the delay was due to Starwood requesting a special design on the Clear cards they are funding. She said to call once I receive the card and they would roll back the expiration date accordingly.

Perhaps they were originally planning to put the BBN on the card like they still have on the spg.com/clear webpage (http://www.spgpromos.com/spgclear/index.cfm?EM=VTY_SPG_CLEAR_PROMOTION). :o

I'm planning to enroll in ATL's Terminal A when I'm passing through in about a week.

I'm planning to enroll in ATL's Terminal A when I'm passing through in about a week.

That's where I did mine... you'll be entertained by the Delta credit card stand right next to it. They try to double as Delta employees and sucker in innocent travelers (usually foreigners who can't speak English) to sign them up for the credit card.

I received the SPG offer for the one-year Clear membership back in the middle of December and completed the initial (online) enrollment on January 6.

However, I haven't flown much since then and did not complete the in-person enrollment (fingerprint/iris scan). But on January 29, I received this email from Clear:

Complete your Clear enrollment by February 9th, and we will add an extra month of Clear membership to your term. The next step is to visit one of our enrollment centers and complete in-person enrollment. Be sure to bring two forms of government-issued identification, one containing your photo. A US Passport is strongly recommended. For a list of all approved identification, please click here.

Once you complete enrollment by February 9th we'll add an extra month to your Clear membership.

Looks like my laziness paid off (for once!) :p. The email was enough to get me to complete my enrollment today. Once I receive my card and expiration date, I'll post here to update everyone. But if you're in no rush to use your CLEAR card and haven't signed up yet, at least complete the online portion and wait a few weeks and see if you get this bonus one-month. Or if you've already completed the online portion, then wait for the ~3 weeks or so and see if you can extend it an extra month.

EDIT: I guess I should say that this is YMMV, but I'm sure this is used as an incentive to complete the enrollment. The more datapoints, the better!

thanks spg :)

Got my card the other day, but havent had a chance to use it yet. Thanks spg and clear!

I received the SPG offer for the one-year Clear membership back in the middle of December and completed the initial (online) enrollment on January 6.

However, I haven't flown much since then and did not complete the in-person enrollment (fingerprint/iris scan). But on January 29, I received this email from Clear:



Looks like my laziness paid off (for once!) :p. The email was enough to get me to complete my enrollment today. Once I receive my card and expiration date, I'll post here to update everyone. But if you're in no rush to use your CLEAR card and haven't signed up yet, at least complete the online portion and wait a few weeks and see if you get this bonus one-month. Or if you've already completed the online portion, then wait for the ~3 weeks or so and see if you can extend it an extra month.

EDIT: I guess I should say that this is YMMV, but I'm sure this is used as an incentive to complete the enrollment. The more datapoints, the better!

Just so happens I registered a couple of days ago and a day later got the same email. Now I just get my lazy butt to the airport between today and tomorrow. :D

I just received mine in the mail yesterday and will be using it later this week. I'm not certain that I'll keep it upon renewal unless there is a deal to be had.

I just received mine in the mail yesterday and will be using it later this week. I'm not certain that I'll keep it upon renewal unless there is a deal to be had.

the only deal that would prompt me to renew next year is if SPG gives it to me for free:p

I just received mine in the mail yesterday and will be using it later this week. I'm not certain that I'll keep it upon renewal unless there is a deal to be had.

Yep, I am going to see how it goes. I would like to see some sort of promotion to add my wife. We travel together most of the time and even if it was like a 3 month promo for a small fee it would be enough for us to give it a good test. We travel mostly together.

That's right, you heard it..shame SPG marketing shame:td:Some of us do not live in the US but spend over 100 nights/year on business travel within the US alone.As a world citizen who is not a US citizen I get no benefit from this offer:mad::mad:
Another example of being too US centric....it is indeed a big world out here so can someone at SPG Marketing wake up please:mad::mad:

Come on, is this Starwood you should be yelling at or the US govt for never thinking outside the box... He these people elected George TWICE.:eek:

hmm i called clear to update my status a few weeks ago but it still hasnt shown. looks like i need to call clear again...

This was quick!!! ^

I called the Clear Support 866-848-2415 number (Lurker's entry #31) at about 10 AM this morning to extend my current membership. 2 hours later I get an email from Clear stating that my membership has been extended with 1 year.

Hurrey! :D Now I'm good until Fall 2010 thanks to Marriott and Starwood.

So if we renew do we get the new card with our picture on it? Also my membership is good till OCT this year, does the renewal extend to OCT next year? Probably somewhere in the thread. But just to rekindle the answer :)

So if we renew do we get the new card with our picture on it? Also my membership is good till OCT this year, does the renewal extend to OCT next year? Probably somewhere in the thread. But just to rekindle the answer :)

as stated directly in the post above yours it does extend it by one year from the expiration date you would have had without the promo

Check here to find the locations at each airport. It is not consistent so you want to learn where to find them.

http://www.flyclear.com/where/where_airports.html

There's usually some signs around giving you direction but you're better off checking the website first (particularly because not every terminal at every airport they serve has Clear lanes).

As you approach the area, you'll see lit up blue cubes (like the logo you see on the top, left of the website). Once there, attendants will take over and guide you through the steps, assist with luggage and what goes on the belt, and get you to the front of the "public" line if that's necessary.

Just a quick note.
The 20 or so airports that support the card has the special lines and biometric scanners to "speed" you through the lines but via general security or any of the preferred lanes you can still present the clear card as your ID ant any US airport. I plan on keeping the clear card with my carry on luggage so if for some reason I forget my driver's license I can still use the clear card to pass through security.

I plan on keeping the clear card with my carry on luggage so if for some reason I forget my driver's license I can still use the clear card to pass through security.

Good to know. I always keep my passport hidden in my bag for that exact reason. But I always worry about the bag getting stolen. Having the CLEAR card as a backup will be nice.

I had to call back to confirm the extension of my Clear membership. Clear needed some additional confirmation :rolleyes:

The Clear CSR asked the same question of the first time :rolleyes:

^To SPG for allowing extension of Clear memberships. Other offers I've received from other programs are for first time members only, otherwise I would have Clear for 5 years free. 2 years isn't bad though.;)

I finally decided to take advantage of the complimentary offer, however when I enter my SPG number (without the letter of course) on the promo page, and then push enter, I get an error. I called web-assist about 5 times and am still waiting. Anyone else with this problem?

I finally decided to take advantage of the complimentary offer, however when I enter my SPG number (without the letter of course) on the promo page, and then push enter, I get an error. I called web-assist about 5 times and am still waiting. Anyone else with this problem?

Personally, I would call CLEAR directly at 866-848-2415 and ask them to enroll you over the phone. They might need to check your qualifying status with SPG first, but from all reports they are pretty good at getting back to you once that is sorted out.

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Online Guest Feedback Coordinator
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Personally, I would call CLEAR directly at 866-848-2415 and ask them to enroll you over the phone. They might need to check your qualifying status with SPG first, but from all reports they are pretty good at getting back to you once that is sorted out.

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Online Guest Feedback Coordinator
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com Thanks.

I cancelled my application before I finished it. It seems like more of a hassle that it is worth.

I cancelled my application before I finished it. It seems like more of a hassle that it is worth.


if you don't frequent airports with clear lines then yeah

however I do frequent those airports and its worth it without a doubt; now would it be better with more airports, he11 yeah.. but in a worst case, I rec'd two free years so I really can't complain

I cancelled my application before I finished it. It seems like more of a hassle that it is worth.

I honestly did not find it that much of a hassle. They do have to have some process in places to identify you are who you are but honestly the web sign up took no time and then the verification of my email was no time as well. I think it took all of 10 minutes at the kiosk portion. I found it to be relatively hassle free and if it saves my bacon one time at the airport with long lines then it is worth the cost. :)

I filled mine out - it wasn't that bad. I figured I was running out of time at it was at least worth trying

Clear Lanes Are No Longer Available (http://www.flyclear.com/)

At 11:00 p.m. PST on June 22, 2009, Clear will cease operations. Clear’s parent company, Verified Identity Pass, Inc. has been unable to negotiate an agreement with its senior creditor to continue operations.

I never got around to activating my complimentary membership. I guess not many people signed up/re-upped for the $$ version either.

Onedog

This is sad news, although limited in locations, I really appreciated Starwood's gift of CLEAR.

This is sad news, although limited in locations, I really appreciated Starwood's gift of CLEAR.

Damn. And I was just starting to use them at DCA and BOS.

Clear Lanes Are No Longer Available (http://www.flyclear.com/)



I never got around to activating my complimentary membership. I guess not many people signed up/re-upped for the $$ version either.

Onedog

That sucks, I was at IAD about a week ago and didnt even use it, as I was traveling with someone that wasnt with Clear.

Now what will they be doing with my info????????????

Clear Lanes Are No Longer Available (http://www.flyclear.com/)


I never got around to activating my complimentary membership. I guess not many people signed up/re-upped for the $$ version either.

Onedog

Thanks for posting.

If I hadn't read your post, I would have not realized this recent turn of events as Clear did not notify us.

I only had a chance to use Clear a couple of times (most of my flights were through un-Clear terminals); I certainly enjoyed the queue jumping and felt a bit guilty about it.

Crap! I just got my Clear card last month and have been using it for ID ever since, even at airports without clear lanes. I really liked it. :(

OK Ill miss it although I hardly was able to use it due to Clear not being available at the Terms or Airports I was flying out of.

No way was I gonna be paying for it as it was.

It did save me twice from not making a flight, and twice when I really needed them they were Closed due it not being a Weekday

This is VERY current/recent news, as of this evening:

Los Angeles Times:
http://travel.latimes.com/daily-deal-blog/index.php/registered-traveler--4694/

Wall Street Journal:
http://blogs.wsj.com/middleseat/2009/06/22/un-clear-registered-traveler-company-shuts-down/

A bit more info from the Aviation Week commercial aviation blog Things With Wings:
http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/blogs/commercial_aviation/ThingsWithWings/index.jsp?plckController=Blog&plckScript=blogScript&plckElementId=blogDest&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&plckPostId=Blog%3a7a78f54e-b3dd-4fa6-ae6e-dff2ffd7bdbbPost%3ad3867997-f8fd-403d-93ef-a7c047cd849a

No one should be shocked they didn't get an email about it from the company. Not that it's right, but this happens when companies abruptly fold. This seems very sudden.

I did just get an e-mail that they ceased operations.

I just got a notice that Clear is banko and will is no longer operational as of tonight.

Dang...glad that I didn't renew recently as I was contemplating....

I wonder if *Wood is going to send somting to the Plats who got this offer, maybe a free weekend night or two. ;)...

This was so quick. Just had a great experience with Clear this morning and then this email comes in. Wow.

I have used mine a few times and I thought it was great. I was even thinking the other day when next year comes around I might even fork over the money. Whew, am I glad it was free, or I'd be kind of torqued right now.

I just got this in my mailbox:


Clear Customer Service
to me
show details 9:47 PM (4 minutes ago)

Clear to Cease Operations

Dear nearSacto,

The Clear CardAt 11:00 p.m. PST today, Clear will cease operations. Clear's parent company, Verified Identity Pass, Inc. has been unable to negotiate an agreement with its senior creditor to continue operations.

After today, Clear lanes will be unavailable.

Sincerely,
Clear Customer Support

This message was sent to Clear member 'nearSacto' ( ************xxxx).
This email is about your Clear account and you may not opt out.
You may choose to opt out of non-critical communications.
NOTE: If you unsubscribe, you will not receive important updates offered by Clear.
For more information, please read our privacy policy.

Clear, 600 Third Avenue 10th Floor, New York, NY 10016
www.flyclear.com

Verified Identity Pass
600 Third Avenue
10th Floor
New York, NY 10016

I just got this in my mailbox:

Clear Customer Service
to me
show details 9:47 PM (4 minutes ago)

Clear to Cease Operations

Dear nearSacto,

The Clear CardAt 11:00 p.m. PST today, Clear will cease operations. Clear's parent company, Verified Identity Pass, Inc. has been unable to negotiate an agreement with its senior creditor to continue operations.

After today, Clear lanes will be unavailable.

Sincerely,
Clear Customer Support

This message was sent to Clear member 'nearSacto' ( ************xxxx).
This email is about your Clear account and you may not opt out.
You may choose to opt out of non-critical communications.
NOTE: If you unsubscribe, you will not receive important updates offered by Clear.
For more information, please read our privacy policy.

Clear, 600 Third Avenue 10th Floor, New York, NY 10016
www.flyclear.com

Verified Identity Pass
600 Third Avenue
10th Floor
New York, NY 10016

Guess that's good news for everyone who isn't a Clear member.

Did you not see the other threads about this before starting a new one?

Paging Cheap Elite!

I just got this in my mailbox:

Clear Customer Service
to me
show details 9:47 PM (4 minutes ago)

Clear to Cease Operations

Dear nearSacto,

The Clear CardAt 11:00 p.m. PST today, Clear will cease operations. Clear's parent company, Verified Identity Pass, Inc. has been unable to negotiate an agreement with its senior creditor to continue operations.

After today, Clear lanes will be unavailable.

Sincerely,
Clear Customer Support

This message was sent to Clear member 'nearSacto' ( ************xxxx).
This email is about your Clear account and you may not opt out.
You may choose to opt out of non-critical communications.
NOTE: If you unsubscribe, you will not receive important updates offered by Clear.
For more information, please read our privacy policy.

Clear, 600 Third Avenue 10th Floor, New York, NY 10016
www.flyclear.com

Verified Identity Pass
600 Third Avenue
10th Floor
New York, NY 10016

Just got this as one of those that enrolled through the SPG gift, but never got the chance to activate at a Clear based airport:

Dear vandalby,
At 11:00 p.m. PST today, Clear will cease operations. Clear's parent company, Verified Identity Pass, Inc. has been unable to negotiate an agreement with its senior creditor to continue operations.
You have not been charged for your enrollment and your application data will be purged from the system in accordance with Clear's privacy policy.
Sincerely,
Clear Customer Support

Really a shame, but my travels this year haven't taken me to any locations with a Clear enrollment center.

That being said, I want to give a very big THANK YOU to Starwood. This was a unique way to show that you appreciate my business and I'm sure I would have found some significant value in it had my travels been aligned with Clear stations.

I hope that Starwood will continue to keep coming up with fun and creative ways to show appreciation for Platinums, it's certainly a reason as to why I keep my business with SPG.

I wonder if *Wood is going to send somting to the Plats who got this offer, maybe a free weekend night or two. ;)...

Maybe 5k points for my inconvenience? :)

Maybe 5k points for my inconvenience? :)

I'm not sure if *wood already paid a fee to them, even a nominal $20 per plat for this offer, or just let them give it to us for free.

At a minimum, this cost *wood either nothing, or very little. At that, they shouldn't really be obligated to give us something in its place.

I'd rater have *wood invest the money in the overall health of their program then try to replace a total fringe bennie.

At a minimum, this cost *wood either nothing, or very little. At that, they shouldn't really be obligated to give us something in its place.

I'd rater have *wood invest the money in the overall health of their program then try to replace a total fringe bennie.

Agreed. It's unrealistic to hold Starwood accountable for the failure of a partner whose offer cost the SPG participant nothing.

If anything, this reflects badly on Clear and its management (and the story is, by the way, on the front page of this morning's USA Today).

It is a sad demise of a good priority security program. As mostly a DC area traveler, I enjoyed the clear lanes and priority treatment. I have been privileged to have availed the Hyatt/SPG complimentary clear service. Lets hope our information in the clear database are safe and they take proper care before liquidating assets. :(

If anything, this reflects badly on Clear and its management (and the story is, by the way, on the front page of this morning's USA Today).

I don't see how this reflects poorly on Clear and its management. This is pure business. When a business has to cease operations because of lack of money and a bleak future, there is no way it can do this gracefully.

I assume that anyone who paid for/renewed a membership recently can pursue refund of their fees through the credit card company.

I don't see how this reflects poorly on Clear and its management. This is pure business. When a business has to cease operations because of lack of money and a bleak future, there is no way it can do this gracefully.

What I meant, and worded apparently poorly, is that this reflects poorly on Clear and its management because they could not manage their business in a way to stay in business, and the end was very abrupt (there are more graceful ways to shut down, by the way, such as providing more notice; other businesses do find a way to do that).

Clear did send email notification to all customers, apparently; I received mine late last night. That was the right thing to do. Still, it was very sudden, and that's a common thread in the news stories.

well so much for getting year 3 free :eek:

my first two years were courtesy of Hyatt and Marriott..

they were in my home airport (IAD) but not in enough other locations to make it worth paying for

I'm not sure how this is good for everyone who wasn't a clear member as posted above.. this just puts more people back in the other lines :rolleyes:

I have used mine a few times and I thought it was great. I was even thinking the other day when next year comes around I might even fork over the money. Whew, am I glad it was free, or I'd be kind of torqued right now.
I did experienced great service and were also thinking that I even might pay for it when my free membership (Marriott/SPG) ran out.

That being said, I want to give a very big THANK YOU to Starwood. This was a unique way to show that you appreciate my business and I'm sure I would have found some significant value in it had my travels been aligned with Clear stations.

I hope that Starwood will continue to keep coming up with fun and creative ways to show appreciation for Platinums, it's certainly a reason as to why I keep my business with SPG.

I would rather have had some nice luggage tags - quite frankly. I signed up at OAK and only used the card twice. For some airports (SJC/OAK) they didn't even have the line open when I was there. CLEARly something more useful for those on the East Coast.

Used it for 2yrs (1 free thru Hyatt, 1 thru SPG). It was available at 80% of my normal airports, and rolling past the zoo at SFO on a Friday afternoon in less than 10minutes, Iwould have paid $100+ for it without blinking.

I referred more than 10 people into this program, and am gutted that they're gone.

I also am a bit anxious where my fingerprints and iris imaging are going now...

Dear Starwood,

Global Entry.

Global Entry.

Global Entry.

A wonderful (and far more useful) replacement for CLEAR.

Thank you.

I also am a bit anxious where my fingerprints and iris imaging are going now...

This email update from Clear just arrived:

Clear Member Update


Dear Seattlenerd,

In response to questions raised by our members, Clear would like to offer the following information:

Clear Lanes Are No Longer Available.

At 11:00 p.m. PST on June 22, 2009, Clear ceased operations. Clear's parent company, Verified Identity Pass, Inc., was unable to negotiate an agreement with its senior creditor to continue operations. Verified Identity Pass regrets that Clear will not be able to continue operations.

How is Clear securing personal information?

Clear stands by our commitment to protect our customer's personally identifiable information - including fingerprints, iris images, photos, names, addresses, credit card numbers and other personal information provided to us - and to keep the privacy promises that we have made. Information is secured in accordance with the Transportation Security Administration's Security, Privacy and Compliance Standards.

How is Clear securing any information at the airports?

Each hard disk at the airport, including the enrollment and verification kiosks, has now been wiped clean of all data and software. The triple wipe process we used automatically and completely overwrites the contents of the entire disk, including the operating system, the data and the file structure. This process also prevents or thoroughly hinders all known techniques of hard disk forensic analysis.

How is Clear securing any information in central databases and corporate systems?

Lockheed Martin is the lead systems integrator for Clear, and is currently working with Verified Identity Pass, Inc. to ensure an orderly shutdown as the program closes. As Verified Identity Pass, Inc. and the Transportation Security Administration work through this process, Lockheed Martin remains committed to protecting the privacy of individuals' personal information provided for the Clear Registered Traveler program. Lockheed's work will also remain consistent with the Transportation Security Administration's federal requirements and the enhanced security and privacy requirements of Verified Identity Pass, Inc.

The computers that Verified Identity Pass, Inc. assigned to its former corporate employees are being wiped using the same process described for computers at the airports.

Will personally identifiable information be sold?

The personally identifiable information that customers provided to Clear may not be used for any purpose other than a Registered Traveler program operated by a Transportation Security Administration authorized service provider. Any new service provider would need to maintain personally identifiable information in accordance with the Transportation Security Administration's privacy and security requirements for Registered Traveler programs. If the information is not used for a Registered Traveler program, it will be deleted.

How will members be notified when information is deleted?

Clear intends to notify members in a final email message when the information is deleted.

Who is monitoring this process?

Clear is communicating with TSA, airport and airline sponsors, and subcontractors, to ensure that the security of the information and systems is maintained throughout the closure process. Clear thanks these partners for their continuing cooperation and diligence.

How can I contact Clear?

Please visit our website, www.flyclear.com, for the latest updates. Clear's call center and customer support email service are no longer available.

Will I receive a refund for membership in Clear?

At the present time, Verified Identity Pass, Inc. cannot issue refunds due to the company's financial condition.

Has Verified Identity Pass, Inc. filed for bankruptcy?

At the present time, Verified Identity Pass has not commenced any proceedings under the United States Bankruptcy Code.


Clear Customer Service

Clear, 600 Third Avenue 10th Floor, New York, NY 10016
www.flyclear.com

From the NYT (09/29/09)


"Verified Identity Pass, a company founded by the entrepreneur Steven Brill, offered travelers a tempting proposition: pay up to $199 a year, submit to a fingerprint and iris scan, and skip to the front of interminable airport security lines.

An investment banker is trying to revive a company that provided a service called Clear, which allowed its members to bypass airport security lines.

But last June, the company left its roughly 200,000 paying customers stranded, saying that it was ceasing operations and did not have cash to offer refunds.

Now it appears those customers will get a break. Kurtis Fechtmeyer, an investment banker based in Emeryville, Calif., said on Tuesday that his new investment group, Henry Inc., had signed a letter of intent with Morgan Stanley, the defunct company’s largest debt holder, to buy its assets and reopen its fast-lane security service, called Clear.

Mr. Fechtmeyer said his group thought it could bring back the service as soon as this holiday season. It will offer former Clear members, some of whom had paid for years of the service in advance, the option of rejoining with their membership intact.

“People are still desperate for convenience at security checkpoints, and the government is very interested in having more registered travelers whose identities are verified,” he said. “There is still strong demand for this service.”

If the former members choose not to sign up, Mr. Fechtmeyer said, their personal information will be destroyed. The fate of that data had been a source of worry for some Clear customers.

Mr. Fechtmeyer, a former managing director of FBR Capital Markets, an investment bank, had been helping Clear secure extra financing before it shut down. His investment group is composed of family-owned funds in the Bay Area and elsewhere and at least one principal investor whom he declined to name because the deal was not yet completed.

Word of a possible new life for the Clear service surfaced ahead of a hearing that a House Homeland Security subcommittee will hold on Wednesday to discuss the future of the Transportation Security Administration’s registered traveler program. Mr. Fechtmeyer’s wife, Alison Townley, also a principal of Henry, will testify.

The vision for the Clear service was first laid out soon after the 9/11 attacks in a Newsweek column by Mr. Brill, the founder of Court TV and American Lawyer magazine. He wrote that a private company could solve the problems of security and long lines in airports with a smart identification card, backed by biometric tests, that would allow members to pass through special lines at airports.

Verified Identity Pass, the New York-based company he created to pursue that idea, required people to go through a lengthy enrollment process, give up personal information and have an iris scan and fingerprints recorded. In return, they got to bypass security lines, accompanied by Clear “concierges” who were stationed at airports like Kennedy International.

In its four years of operation, V.I.P. raised $90 million in financing from the likes of Spark Capital, Baker Capital, Lockheed Martin, General Electric and Lehman Brothers. But it became known less for its service than for a string of controversies.

Mr. Brill was forced out of the company by investors earlier this year and later sued over breach of contract, winning a million-dollar judgment. Last year, a company laptop containing the personal information of some 33,000 customers was lost for a week at San Francisco International Airport (it was later found and the information had apparently not been accessed).

When the Clear service ceased operations over the summer, after backers could not agree on how to restructure its debt, some members filed a class-action lawsuit, accusing the company of fraud and of breaching its contracts.

But people involved with the company say it was near profitability when it shut down. That is one reason Mr. Fechtmeyer and Ms. Townley are optimistic that they can turn the Clear service into a successful business. They say they have already begun to meet with representatives from the Transportation Security Agency and Clear’s partner airports, some of which said “you cannot open soon enough,” according to Ms. Townley.

They also said that they conducted a survey of Clear customers over the summer, and that 70 percent said they would return to the service. Another 20 percent said they would return depending on which airports were included. The new buyers are developing ways to allow people to sign up for the service directly at the airport — presumably when they are confronted in person with a long, time-wasting security line.

Mr. Brill, who now runs Journalism Online, a venture developing ways for newspapers to charge for online access, was cautiously enthusiastic about a new life for Clear. “Assuming they comply with the privacy requirements of the program, I think it would be great,” he said. “The way the company got shut down was at best irresponsible. If someone is going to try to make it up to those customers, I think that’s a real good thing.”

As ticked as I was when they closed down, I would LOVE for SPG to give me another membership! When I signed up, I loved it and it took a lot of the panic of the unknown time for security lines!

As ticked as I was when they closed down, I would LOVE for SPG to give me another membership! When I signed up, I loved it and it took a lot of the panic of the unknown time for security lines!

I wouldn't expect SPG to give you a new membership even if it is revived. If you had an existing free membership, it would likely be reinstated. Of course, it's all pure conjecture at this point.