With the continued government shutdown that is affecting TSA personnel, and the often-reported extra-long lines at U.S. airports, something had to give—and economics always wins out.
Now multiple outlets are reporting that inventive entrepreneurs are offering their services.
Samuel, founder of Same Ole Line Dudes, has actually been providing this service (which he calls a “placeholding concierge service”) for all sorts of lines in the New York City area since 2012. They charge $25 per hour, with a two-hour minimum.
But last week, Houston’s Airport System said in a press release that this practice is not officially sanctioned.
“For your security, passengers should not pay individuals offering to hold their place in line, as they are not authorized and have not been vetted. Please remain with your belongings and use only official airport queues. Passengers who choose to use unauthorized services do so at their own risk,” said the press release.
Jimmy M. Payne, a travel advisor, recently posted on social media that he was willing to provide his line-sitting services for TSA lines.
“Airports are getting out of hand… so I’m offering a solution, he said. “If you don’t feel like standing in those long TSA lines, I’ll do it for you. I’ll stand in line, hold your spot, and call or text you when I reach the TSA scan point. You walk up, step in, and keep it moving.”
Payne also explained his skills included, “Strong legs. Strong bladder. Zero complaints.” He told followers that he required fees to be paid in advance, up to two pieces of luggage, and a week’s notice was required.
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