ALL CLEAR: Atlanta Hawks fans, and all other event goers at State Farm Arena, can avail themselves of expedited entry thanks to a new multi-year partnership with Clear. (Kyle Hess Photography)
CLEAR Launches Free, Expedited Entry Lane at Gate 6 for All Fans
There’s an express lane at State Farm Arena now that the NBA Atlanta Hawks have inked a multi-year partnership with Clear to provide expedited entry all venue events.
As is the case at a growing number of professional sports venues, all ticket holders have free access to the VIP Lane at Gate 6. Fans are invited to download the Clear app, sign up for the service and head to the gate on event day. Gate 6 opens 30 minutes before Hawks’ home games.
Clear, which uses biometrics such as retinal or fingerprint scans to identify registered users, is a popular option for frequent air travelers who are able to avoid long lines in much the same way TSA-pre allows. Clear’s airport service, Clear Plus, costs $189 annually, with discounts available for Delta and United frequent fliers and select American Express card members.
Andrew Saltzman, State Farm Arena’s executive vice president and chief revenue officer said less time in line gives fans more time inside the arena.
The service officially launched at State Farm on Jan. 19 for a Barry Manilow concert. The entry process at the arena does not include eye biometrics, but does require proof of a free Clear membership and the event’s ticket.
Clear will host a member appreciation day on April 2, with live entertainment and giveaways.
It’s not the first time Clear has worked with the arena, as the Clear Health Pass was the venue’s preferred health screening solutions, said Catesby Perrin, executive vice president of Growth at Clear. A Hawks spokesman. explained that Clear Health Pass was used for COVID protocol entry during the 20-21 season.
Clear is currently partnering with 18 stadiums and teams in leagues including the NBA, MLB, the NFL, NHL and MLS.
“Our age-verification technology is also currently being used by fans in select seating areas at Allegiant Stadium, (home of the Las Vegas Raiders) and SAP Center, (home of the San Jose Sharks),” he said. “We’re bringing on more partners all the time.”
Clear’s deals are generally with individual teams and stadiums and the company has strong momentum, Perrin said.
“Enrollment among users is up, retention among our members is well above expectations, and we’re leveraging technology and collaboration with our partners, including the Hawks, to transform the way people live, work and travel,” he said.
Clear currently operates Clear Plus lanes, its signature airport membership, in 51 airports across the U.S.
“We also offer several other products that are designed to make the travel experience easier and more secure, including Reserve powered by Clear, which allows travelers to make a time-designated reservation at airport security, Perrin said. That service is available at 16 airports.
Special Clear Plus pricing is available for United MileagePlus members and Delta SkyMiles members, and select American Express cardholders.
Clear also has options in car rental, hotel reservation/check-in and the healthcare sector, where it aims to replace the clipboard.
