Notes

The Airport VIP Services Make Flying a Breeze
What would you pay for the privilege to bypass customs and security lines at the airport: $100? Or four grand?

Airport concierge companies are positioning themselves as the best way to ease the pain of jet-setting, whether you're departing or landing.

These concierge companies are a fast-growing segment. There have been at least ten airport concierge services launched in the last three years, according to Michael Holtz, the owner of SmartFlyer, a global travel consultancy focusing on airports and airlines. Increasingly, he said, people are using them more frequently and are growing frustrated by the hassles associated with them. Holtz says that if you're time-pressed, don't like waiting in lines, or just desire to feel like a VIP, these services are for you.

If travelers book online, by phone, or through travel agents, they can get expedited security access, assistance with getting VAT refunds, and even access to private lounges for $100 to $4,000. The programs do not require airlines to participate, but they partner with airports to remove the security obstacles that prevent them from operating across terminals. Their business is similar to that of stores and restaurants that pay airports a fee to operate in airports.

A number of established players in this under-the-radar industry are reporting upticks as well. The Asia Fast Track, which focuses on Asia Pacific, Africa and the Middle East, averaged 500 bookings per month this year, compared with 150 bookings per month in 2016. Since 2006, Royal Airport Concierge, a global service, has more than doubled its business. Founder Ron Gorfinkel did not provide specific figures, but said that [bookings] number in the thousands.

For Albert Herrera, Executive Vice President, Global Product Partnerships at Virtuoso, VIP airport services only account for about 2 percent of the companys $22 billion revenue, up from about 2 percent two years ago. A VIP airport concierge was once reserved for celebrities or the ultra-wealthy, but now any passenger who desires a seamless airport experience is eligible, said Hensley.

The Royal Airport Concierge operates in more than 750 airports around the world, including major hubs such as JFK, Heathrow, Seoul, Riyadh, Mexico City, as well as holiday destinations such as Cancun, Miami, and Nice.

Fliers can choose different levels of service, with the number of tiers varying from airport to airport. The basic service is such that travelers are assigned a greeter who will accompany them from the time they arrive at the airport until they board their flight; they receive assistance with check-in and carry-on baggage. If you have lots to haul or are carrying an unaccompanied minor, that's most helpful. Most countries give middle tier ticket holders fast track through security and immigration. Luxurious hospitality is a full-scale luxury production. With this service, you get to your plane in style and have a private suite at the airport terminal with amenities such as a top-shelf bar, an array of food with caviar, showers, and an office. .and a butler to wait on you.
Although it does not operate at as many airports as Royal Airport Concierge, it operates in a number of the same hubs, including Paris, New York, Rome, Beijing, and Dubai.

Blacklane PASS is an offshoot of the company Blacklane that provides car services. Besides offering escorted services that take customers through security, customs, and immigration, the company also helps refund VAT. At departure, your gate attendant can wait at the gate for you and let you know when it is your turn to board so you can explore Duty Free. Once you exit the luxury plan, they'll be waiting for you at the gate when you get off. Few travelers after 9-11 have experienced this privilege. You will have to pay extra for Blacklane to book you into a lounge if you do not have access on your own.

For: Those who prioritize efficiency over high-end perks.

Taking a departure, an arrival, or connecting will cost $100 per person. Children two and under are free. In spite of the fact that most fliers tip their greeters, a company spokesman explained that gratuity is optional.
https://topalpha.de/vip-service/ The airline operates in 300 airports across Asia Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East

Asia Fast Track specializes in areas where VIP services are relatively easier to obtain. Airports in Asia are less restrictive than those in the Americas and Europe. All customers are escorted through every step of their arrival or departure process, whether that be gathering at the plane before immigration during an arrival or meeting at the curbside for a departure at most airports, although not all hubs offer the service. (Be sure to ask ahead of booking.) vip tourist services Select airports, such as Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport in Taipei, offer the services of a private terminal and a limousine tarmac transfer.
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