TAMPA, Fla — Editor's Note: The photo above is a pre-pandemic file photo.
It’s another sign that travel is returning to normal levels in our area: Curbside check-in is back at Tampa international Airport.
“People are happy to see us here, back, yeah,” said Peter Forkuh, who’d been checking passengers curbside for more than 22 years when COVID-19 suddenly slammed the brakes on his job and his income.
Now, he and his skycap colleagues have returned.
“Oh, it’s good to be back,” said Nicolas Zapatier, a skycap for more than 10 years. “Definitely.”
The airport gleefully took to its social media pages announcing the return of curbside check in after they say Southwest Airlines, the airport’s busiest carrier, joined a handful of others.
“It’s easy,” said passenger Shay Davis, who was glad to see the service return. “I don’t have to worry about going through the airport or worrying about where my bag is – keeping my bags.”
Not all airlines are participating yet again in curbside check-in. So, before waiting on a long line, it’s probably a good idea to ask the baggage handlers whether your airline is among those that are.
The return of the baggage brigade also comes at a price. Participating airlines are charging a fee of $3 per bag.
Still, that didn’t stop passengers from lining up for it.
“Yeah, it actually cost now, but it’s convenient,” said Davis.
Linda Cutchens was just so happy to just be traveling again she tipped her skycap ten bucks on top of the fee.
“That seems to be minimal the way things are going nowadays,” she said. “I know the pandemic has affected everyone, so, it’s nice to be able to get back and give a little back. “
If it’s been a while since you used curbside check-in, you might be wondering what an appropriate tip is these days. Baggage handlers we spoke with say $5 a bag is generous, but they are grateful for any gratuity.
TPA says the timing is good for the service’s return, as daily travel figures are rapidly approaching pre-pandemic levels.
Zapatier says he couldn’t agree more.
“I don’t wanna have to go through that again,” he said. “Just really glad to be back. It’s just refreshing, and it’s been a long time.”
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