Gate Pass to Accompany Elderly Parent Flying El Al from JFK
 

Hello,

Is it possible to get a gate pass to accompany an elderly parent to the gate and remain with her until the flight boards? She is flying El Al from JFK and a wheelchair has been arranged for her. If possible, what needs to be done to secure the pass?

Thanks in advance.

Mark

Yes, it is definitely possible. This type of gate pass is obtained from the airline at the check-in counter and it is entirely up to the airline's discretion on whether to provide it. Ask really nicely.....

As a back-up plan, you could (a) purchase a refundable ticket for a flight that departs some hours after your mom's flight departs so that you can go through the checkpoint with her and then cancel the ticket before boarding. Make sure your flight is scheduled from the same terminal as your mom's flight or that it is possible to travel airside between the terminals; (b) if you have access privileges to an airline club then ask the club to provide a pass so you can visit someone at the club.

Take a look at this thread:

I do this with my elderly dad all the time. It's a good idea to call the airline ahead of time and note that there's a disability and you'll need a gate pass so they'll have it in the reservation when you arrive at the airport.

No worries as they don't use the same terminals, but for those who contemplate buying abdcregunding an airline ticket for the purpose of going airside to accompany others or visit a lounge, you might wish to check the issuing airline's policies about this.

For example, AA can bring the hammer down on you.

American specifically prohibits practices commonly known as (in part):

Fraudulent, fictitious and abusive bookings: Fraudulent, fictitious and/or abusive bookings are prohibited. These types of bookings are defined as any bookings made without having been requested by or on behalf of the named passenger. Additionally, creating bookings to hold or block seats for the purpose of obtaining lower fares, AAdvantage award inventory, or upgrades that may not otherwise be available, or to gain access to airport facilities, or to circumvent any of American Airlines' fare rules or policies, is prohibited without prior authorization from American Airlines.

Most airlines will grant you a gate pass if escorting an unaccompanied minor or a person with a disability or in need of assistance.

Ive done it with WN with no issue. I don't know if El Al has any special security concerns though.

At the ticket counter I need my ID, the passenger's name, and the passenger's PNR. It's really been hassle free. Note that they will only issue a gate pass to one person, so if you have more non-travelers coming to the airport they will have to wait outside security.

Give El Al a call to confirm. In the US: 800-223-6700