Cleveland Hopkins International Airport has announced a major update that will change how people experience the airport, especially those who want to spend more time with friends and family before or after a flight. The new Hopkins Hangout Pass program, set to launch on August 11, 2025, allows non-ticketed visitors to enter the secure, airside areas of the terminal. This update is important for families, caregivers, and anyone who wants to help or greet travelers at the gate. Here’s a detailed look at what’s changing, who is affected, what actions are required, and what this means for future visits and pending applications.
What Has Changed at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport?
For many years, only travelers with a valid boarding pass could go through security and enter the airside areas of Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. This rule was put in place after the events of September 11, 2001, as part of strict security measures across the United States 🇺🇸. Now, with the introduction of the Hopkins Hangout Pass, non-ticketed guests will be able to access these secure areas again, but under strict controls.
Key Changes:
– Non-ticketed visitors can enter the secure terminal areas with a special pass.
– Applications open August 6, 2025 for visits starting August 11, 2025.
– Only 100 passes will be issued each day to keep security lines manageable.
– Passes are valid from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM each day.
– Applications must be submitted online at least 24 hours and no more than 7 days before the planned visit.
This is a big step for Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, making it one of the few airports in the United States 🇺🇸 to offer such a program. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, this move reflects a growing trend among airports to improve the travel experience while keeping security strong.
Who Is Affected by the Hopkins Hangout Pass?
The new program affects several groups:
- Families and Friends: People who want to spend more time with loved ones before departure or greet them at the gate after arrival.
- Caregivers: Those helping elderly, disabled, or underage travelers who may need extra support through the airport.
- Airport Businesses: Shops and restaurants inside the secure area may see more customers, as non-travelers can now visit.
- Security Staff: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will screen more people, but the daily limit helps avoid long lines.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the Hopkins Hangout Pass, you must meet certain requirements:
- Identification: You need a Real ID or a valid U.S. passport. These are the only forms of ID accepted for this program.
- Minors: Children under 18 must be with an adult at all times.
- Personal Items: Each pass holder can bring only one personal item, like a purse, small bag, or briefcase.
- Application Timing: You must apply at least 24 hours before your visit and no more than 7 days in advance.
Effective Dates and Application Timeline
- August 6, 2025: Online applications for the Hopkins Hangout Pass open.
- August 11, 2025: the first day passes can be used to enter the secure areas.
If you want to visit the terminal on the first day (August 11), you must apply no earlier than August 6 and no later than August 10.
How to Apply for the Hopkins Hangout Pass
The process is designed to be simple and clear. Here’s what you need to do:
- Check Your Eligibility
- Make sure you have a Real ID or U.S. passport.
- If you are applying for a minor, an adult must accompany them.
- Apply Online
- Go to the official Hopkins Hangout Pass Application page.
- Fill out the digital application form.
- Submit your request at least 24 hours and no more than 7 days before your planned visit.
- Wait for Confirmation
- After you apply, you will receive a confirmation email with instructions.
- This email will include your digital pass and details about your visit.
- Arrive at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport
- Bring your digital pass and the same ID you used to apply.
- Go to the security checkpoint during the valid hours (7:00 AM to 10:00 PM).
- Go Through Security Screening
- You will go through the same TSA security process as ticketed passengers.
- All standard security rules apply, including restrictions on liquids and prohibited items.
- Enjoy Terminal Access
- Once through security, you can visit shops, restaurants, and amenities.
- You can also accompany or greet travelers at their gates.
Important Rules and Limitations
- Daily Limit: Only 100 passes are given out each day. If you want to visit on a certain day, apply as early as possible.
- Personal Items: Only one small personal item is allowed per pass holder.
- Security Rules: All TSA rules and airport regulations apply. Misbehavior or breaking the rules can result in removal from the terminal and loss of future access.
- Minors: Children must always be with an adult.
- No Standby or Walk-ins: You cannot get a pass at the airport without applying online in advance.
Why Is This Change Important?
The Hopkins Hangout Pass brings several benefits:
- Family Support: Families can now help elderly or young travelers all the way to the gate, making travel less stressful.
- Emotional Goodbyes and Welcomes: Loved ones can spend more time together before a flight or greet each other right at the gate, which can be comforting, especially for long trips.
- Help for Vulnerable Travelers: People with disabilities or special needs can get direct support from family or caregivers inside the secure area.
- More Business for Airport Shops: With more people able to access the terminal, shops and restaurants may see more customers.
Megan O’Connell, Assistant Director of Marketing, Communications & Guest Experience at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, explained, “Whether you’re assisting a family member to their gate or you just want to spend a few more minutes with someone who is departing, Hopkins Hangout will help.” This shows the airport’s focus on making the travel experience better for everyone.
Security and Safety Considerations
Security remains a top priority. The airport and TSA have set strict rules to keep everyone safe:
- Daily Cap: Limiting passes to 100 per day keeps security lines manageable and prevents overcrowding.
- Full Screening: All pass holders go through the same security checks as ticketed passengers.
- Strict ID Requirements: Only Real ID or U.S. passports are accepted, making it harder for unauthorized people to enter.
- Behavioral Rules: Pass holders must follow all airport and TSA rules.
Security experts support these types of programs when they include strong screening and daily limits. They believe that, if managed well, these programs do not weaken airport security.
Implications for Pending Applications and Future Visits
If you plan to use the Hopkins Hangout Pass, keep these points in mind:
- Apply Early: With only 100 passes per day, spots can fill up quickly, especially during busy travel times or holidays.
- No Last-Minute Changes: You cannot apply at the airport or on the same day as your visit. Plan ahead.
- Program May Change: The airport will watch how the program works and may change the rules, daily limits, or hours based on feedback and security needs.
- Stay Updated: Always check the official CLE website for the latest information before you apply or visit.
If you have already applied and are waiting for confirmation, watch your email closely. If you do not receive a confirmation, you will not be allowed to enter the secure area.
What About Other Airports?
Cleveland Hopkins International Airport is not the first to try a guest pass program, but its Hopkins Hangout Pass is one of the most recent and detailed. Other airports in the United States 🇺🇸 have tested similar programs, but each has its own rules and limits. This trend shows that airports are trying to balance security with a better experience for travelers and their loved ones.
What Should You Do Next?
If you want to use the Hopkins Hangout Pass, here are your next steps:
- Check Your ID: Make sure you have a Real ID or U.S. passport.
- Mark Your Calendar: Applications open August 6, 2025. The first day you can use the pass is August 11, 2025.
- Plan Ahead: Decide which day you want to visit and apply as early as possible within the 7-day window.
- Apply Online: Use the Hopkins Hangout Pass Application page to submit your request.
- Read All Instructions: Follow the directions in your confirmation email carefully.
- Prepare for Security: Remember, you will go through the same screening as travelers. Leave prohibited items at home and bring only one small personal item.
- Enjoy Your Visit: Spend time with your loved ones, help those who need support, or simply enjoy the shops and restaurants inside the terminal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for more than one pass at a time?
Each person must apply separately. Minors must be included in an adult’s application.
What if I lose my ID or pass before my visit?
You must bring the same ID you used to apply. If you lose your ID, you will not be allowed through security.
Can I bring gifts or large bags?
No. Only one small personal item is allowed per person.
What happens if I break the rules?
You may be removed from the terminal and could lose the right to apply for future passes.
Is there a fee for the Hopkins Hangout Pass?
As of now, there is no mention of a fee, but always check the official website for updates.
How will this affect airport security lines?
The daily limit of 100 passes is meant to keep lines moving and avoid delays for travelers.
Where can I find more information?
Visit the Hopkins Hangout Pass Application page or the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport Contact Page for the latest details.
Official Government Resource
For more information about airport security rules and Real ID requirements, you can visit the TSA’s official website. This site explains what IDs are accepted and what to expect during security screening.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Hopkins Hangout Pass?
Cleveland Hopkins International Airport will watch how the program works and listen to feedback from travelers, families, and security staff. If the program is successful, the airport may increase the number of daily passes or add new features for non-ticketed guests. Any changes will be announced on the official airport website.
Summary of Key Points
- Hopkins Hangout Pass lets non-ticketed guests access secure areas at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport starting August 11, 2025.
- Applications open August 6, 2025 and must be submitted online at least 24 hours and no more than 7 days before your visit.
- Only 100 passes per day will be issued, so apply early.
- You need a Real ID or U.S. passport to apply.
- All pass holders go through full TSA security screening.
- Check the official CLE website for updates and details.
This update is a big step for Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, making travel easier and more personal for families and friends, while keeping security strong. If you plan to use the Hopkins Hangout Pass, follow the steps above and stay informed about any changes. For the most current information, always refer to the official airport website and trusted sources like VisaVerge.com.
Learn Today
Hopkins Hangout Pass → A special permit allowing non-ticketed visitors access to secure airport areas at Cleveland Hopkins.
Real ID → A federal ID meeting TSA requirements for airport security screening and boarding purposes.
TSA → Transportation Security Administration, the U.S. agency responsible for airport security screening.
Airside Areas → Secure zones within an airport past security checkpoints, accessible only to authorized individuals.
Security Screening → The inspection process by TSA to ensure prohibited items are not brought into secure zones.
This Article in a Nutshell
Cleveland Hopkins Airport launches Hopkins Hangout Pass on August 11, 2025, letting non-travelers enter secure areas. Limited daily passes balance safety and family access, enhancing the airport experience for loved ones while maintaining strict TSA security protocols.
— By VisaVerge.com
