Airport Concierge Services Travelers Can Book Regardless of Airline Status

22.02.2024 - 11:31 / cntraveler.com / Airlines

Let’s face it: the combination of crowds and chaos that await at every airport curb is the easiest way to put a dent in that pre-vacation elation. But what many travelers don't realize is that you don't need to be a frequent flyer with elite status or a top-tier credit card to be treated like a VIP at the airport.

Several airlines—including Delta, American, United, and Hawaiian—allow customers to book services that remove the headaches from the airport experience. These little-known upgrades, usually called premium ground service, airport concierge service, or VIP service, unlock access and amenities typically off limits to the average flyer.

Perks of these services usually include a concierge who will meet you curbside, check your bags, secure complimentary lounge access, and escort you through priority TSA lines. On some airlines, any passenger can book these services—they’re available for purchase no matter your cabin class or airline status. That makes these premium ground services totally unique compared to other airline perks, like seat upgrades or lounge access, which are usually based on a passenger’s fare class, credit card holdings, or frequent flier miles.

In the US, four major airlines offer VIP airport services. Here’s what to know before booking, including the perks and amenities each carrier offers, how much they cost, and when it makes the most sense to purchase these upgrades.

Delta's hush-hush airport concierge service is the stuff of aviation legends. Called “VIP select,” the service is rarely advertised by the airline, and is only bookable through a special phone number or email address. The program can be booked by any passenger who’s flying on Delta in Main Cabin or above and is in the know. The service is available for departures, arrivals, and even connecting flights.

The services vary slightly depending on if you’re arriving or departing. For departing flights, passengers are met at the curb by a Delta agent who has already printed their tags for any checked bags. Passengers are then given assistance with their carry-on bags, walked through the security checkpoint, and ushered into the terminal’s SkyClub, where they’re given complimentary access, bypass any lines at the entrance, and have reserved seating waiting for them. When it’s time to board the plane, passengers are transferred to their gate (depending on the airport, this could even mean being chauffeured in a Porsche across the apron). At the gate, fliers have a choice of boarding first or last—with reserved overhead bin space, of course.

The service is similar for connecting flights. Connecting passengers are met at their flight and transferred to the SkyClub, with the same perks above. They’re then transferred to