Union rips plan to let non-flyers shop at Pittsburgh airport

The union representing flight attendants at American Airlines is criticizing Pittsburgh International Airport's decision to allow non-flyers to pass through security checkpoints to access the airside terminal's shops, restaurants and gates.

Bob Ross, national president of the Association of Professional Flight Attendants, said the change will decrease airport safety and lead to longer security lines, causing flyers to miss their flights.

“Allowing the non-flying public to go through security at the Pittsburgh International Airport for the sole purpose of shopping is a terrible precedent and an ill-conceived decision,” Ross said in a news release Friday.

The airport is the first in the country to allow non-flyers to access areas beyond security checkpoints, according to the Transportation Security Administration. Access to those areas was prohibited after the 9/11 terror attacks.

“Personally, I'm stunned by the timing of this decision,” Ross said in the release. “Days prior to the anniversary of 9/11 is when we should be reminding the public of the need to remain vigilant, not sending the message that the airport is no different than their local mall.”

Theresa Clift is a Tribune-Review staff writer.