Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport Launches Mail Back Program
Passengers Now Able to Send Items Home
Aug. 22, 2002
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is launching an innovative mail back program enabling passengers to send items home that are prohibited past the Security Checkpoint by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA.) Passengers are highly encouraged to place all sharp objects in their checked-baggage only however, this program will allow travelers to mail items mistakenly placed in carry-on luggage home. The program began on August 12 and the most common items being mailed home are corkscrews and pocket knives.
Passengers with prohibited items are given directions to the closest Information Counter on the passenger level of the terminals. At these locations, travelers can purchase an envelope for $2.00 plus postage for each package. Passengers are then given a validation stamp allowing them to go to the front of the security line when they proceed for re-screening. Previously, passengers had to either surrender items or take them to curbside mail boxes.
"We believe this is the first program of its kind in the nation. It is part of Sky Harbor's on-going efforts to smooth the way for our passengers," said Kit Weiss, Passenger Services Manager. "Sky Harbor wants to dramatically decrease the need for our passengers to leave items behind and suffer the resulting frustration and disappointment."
Concurrently, Sky Harbor Airport is increasing passenger awareness about prohibited items, so that, ultimately, Security Checkpoints see fewer of these kinds of problems.
"As part of the Mail Back program, Sky Harbor has initiated a comprehensive communications campaign to educate the public about items that should be left at home or packed in their checked baggage," said Deborah Ostreicher, public relations manager. "Through radio advertising, the Sky Harbor web site, bus video, and signage in the parking garages and at the ticket counters, passengers are continually reminded about what items they should not attempt to bring through Security Checkpoint."
Conveniently located in the heart of the greater Phoenix metropolitan area, Sky Harbor ranks as the 5th busiest U.S. airport for aircraft operations; 6th busiest U.S. airport for passenger traffic; and 11th busiest airport in the world for passenger traffic. Offering an average of 1,300 daily commercial airline flights, Sky Harbor serves 105 cities with non-stop flights, including non-stop destinations in the UK, Germany, Mexico, and Canada. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport boasts more than 520 perfect flying days per year.
Media Contact:
| Suzanne Luber |
602-273-3450 |
