TRAVELERS can now check in while they’re checking out with an optional hotel airport security checkpoint.
Avoid long TSA lines and airport faff by going through security checks at your hotel.
Travelers with carry-on luggage will be able to use a hotel TSA security checkpoint if they are flying out of a certain airport (stock)[/caption]
This is an option for those staying at the InterContinental Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport Hotel.
After five long years, the security checkpoint has finally reopened allowing guests to exit the hotel directly into the main terminal of Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport.
What is even better is that you do not have to be a guest at the hotel to use it.
The exciting news was announced by the hotel on Tuesday but there is a warning for those who do not pack light.
“Skip the terminal lines: Use our on-site TSA checkpoint,” the hotel announced on its website.
“Savvy travelers may now experience unmatched
convenience and a more seamless travel experience,” it added in a press release.
The security point will be available for to use between 5am and 10am and only for those with carry-on luggage only.
The hotel does not have capacity to process checked baggage so travellers with large bags will have to go through security at the main part of the airport.
After going through the “exclusive TSA checkpoint” at the hotel, guests can access the hotel’s skybridge and directly enter Terminal 1 near gate C25.
Those flying from Terminal 2 will not be able to use the security checkpoint.
It will also not offer TSA PreCheck or other expedited security services.
“The opening of this valuable amenity for travelers makes the InterContinental Minneapolis – Saint Paul Airport Hotel one of only two hotels in the country with on-site TSA access,” the hotel states.
The TSA checkpoint can be found on level 3 of the hotel and while that is only operational for five hours in the morning, the sky bridge means “travelers enjoy a 24-hour seamless exit from Terminal 1.”
The hotel also offers a free 24-hour shuttle service to and from both airport terminals.
TSA’s 3-1-1 rule
The Transportation Security Administration regulates the amount of liquids, aerosols, and gels that flyers can bring through airport security with the 3-1-1 liquids rule.
The 3-1-1 rule consists of the following:
Each container of liquid has to be 3.4 ounces or less.
All liquids have to fit in one clear, quart-sized, resealable bag.
Finally, passengers can only bring one bag of liquids each.
“We understand the value of efficiency and time-saving solutions in travel,” said Benjamin Graves, President of Graves Hospitality, which developed and owns the hotel in conjunction with Intercontinental Real Estate Corporation.
“Our unique positioning with dedicated TSA connection to the airport makes our guestrooms, event spaces, and signature restaurants supremely accessible for travelers, meeting and event attendees, as well as local guests.”
Travelers are delighted with the news, with many saying they have eagerly waited for its return since Covid shut it down.
“This is something IC lovers have wanted back for YEARS now,” Darin Adolphs wrote on Facebook in response to the announcement.
“We only were able to use it once before it closed before covid.
“Look forward to using it more times in the near future. Hope it stays open.”
“Now if I can just figure out how to do carry on only for long trips,” another added.
Travelers will be able to skip the lines and airport faff by seamlessly going from the hotel to Terminal 1 (stock)[/caption]
