Question re PC access at EWR
 

Now that the TSA and the rest of us have settled into a routine, does anyone know how to access any PC at Terminal C if one doesn't have a boarding pass? A search of co.com doesn't shed any light on this. Thanks . .

If you don't have a boarding pass, you cannot enter the PC's at Terminal C.

The only exception that I've been told is to be put on the entry list --so if you have a meeting scheduled in the PC, they'll put you on the list. At the ticket counter, they'll issue you a pass based on matching your photo ID to what is on the list. Then you'll be able to pass through the security screening area. The catch: you must be put on the list 24-48 hours prior to the time you plan to be in the PC. They don't allow for same-day visitors to use the club that day (as I learned.)

What is the 24-48 hour advanced notice for? I have called the Dallas PC and reserved a meeting room 10 min before I needed it, they called the ticket counter and had my guests cleared to go through security.

Why is EWR terminal C different?

Both a EWR Redcoat and TSA told me the advance time was needed to security-screen those seeking to gain admittance and prevent last-minute people from trying to get through without proper security clearance.

Whether this is true or not, who knows... but the few times I wanted to use the PC when not flying, they wanted the 24+ hour time to get a pass together.

It sounds like its easier to buy a refundable ticket and have it refunded when you arrive in the PC.

Poppycock! Last minute? I'm last minute every week when I show up to fly somewhere. It's not like they've PRE-SCREENED me or anything... If you really need into the PC, go to the ticket counter and purchase a Y-fare same-day flight to anywhere. Then have it refunded on your way out of the airport. Only slightly more hassle than getting onto some list, and doesn't require 24-48 hr notice.

Sheesh.

It's actually not poppycock, the 24 hour notice requirement has been in effect since this winter:

http://www.btnw.com/Issue.aspx?issue=2/3/2003#257

You can indeed bypass it by getting the Y ticket, but that could be more hassle than just calling ahead the day before. I'm always loathe to do anything that is an attempt to circumvent TSA rules. The minute I do, they will catch me and I wouldn't be surprised if it was a violation. Admittedly, this is an obscure possibility, but providing 24 hour's notice is not usually too difficult.

[This message has been edited by bergamini (edited 10-12-2003).]

Actually, the second you purchase a ticket you're screened; your transaction record is profiled to see if your travel is suspicious. Its not exactly fail-proof, but it is some level of pre-screening.

You can indeed bypass it by getting the Y ticket, but that could be more hassle than just calling ahead the day before. I'm always loathe to do anything that is an attempt to circumvent TSA rules. The minute I do, they will catch me and I wouldn't be surprised if it was a violation.

Not sure how this could possibly be a'violation'. One of the main reasons people buy Y tickets is because their plans may change and they need the flexibility. This has happened to me many times, even after I have cleared security and am waiting in the PC to board the aircraft. Even Gordon might be upset if he found out that his customers were avoiding buying Y ticekts because they may upset the TSA http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Buying a Y ticket and changing your mind is definitely a valid reason for leaving the gate area. But buying a Y ticket with no intention of using it, and solely to bypass another rule, is probably a violation somewhere. While it's perfectly valid in how you treat Continental, I'm not sure how the TSA feels about it. I'm not saying you'll get caught or that it's even a violation, but it would be bypassing another rule and I'm always paranoid about getting on the wrong side of the TSA!