Park Place, MGM Grand to open registration desks at McCarran

David Strow

Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2000 | 10:46 a.m.

Two Strip resort operators plan to open registration desks at McCarran International Airport that allow their customers to check into their rooms even before they've left the airport.

The agreements are the latest in a series of initiatives by Strip hotels designed to save time for passengers coming through McCarran.

In separate lease agreements signed last month, MGM Grand Inc. and Park Place Entertainment Corp. signed five-year leases with the airport to operate reservation desks in the baggage claim area. Airport spokeswoman Debbie Millett said it was the first time any airport has introduced such a service to fliers.

"The is the first time ever, anywhere, where the guest can fly in, pick up his key, and do everything he can do at a front desk," Millett said. "It's a major convenience. You check in, and then you're free to go play, go to a show ... without having to worry about going to the hotel."

MGM Grand plans to open its express registration desk at McCarran in April. The desk will initially offer check-in services and ticket sales to shows at the hotel, MGM Grand spokeswoman Shelley Mansholt said.

"It's just easy access," Mansholt said. "They're already at the airport, they've picked up their luggage and they can just check in right there and receive a room key. We're in the service industry and our goal is to provide the utmost service to our guests."

Sister property New York-New York is currently considering the service, but has no plans to start operations at the airport at this time.

A Park Place Entertainment spokesman could not be reached for comment.

Though MGM's initial plans are limited, McCarran officials envision turning the operations into full-service equivalents of registration desks, offering such conveniences as baggage check-in and concierge service.

"We'd like to have as many resorts that want to take advantage of this to do so," Millett said. "What's better for the guests is better for everyone."

Discussions were also held with the Venetian, but that property has decided not to participate at this time, said Venetian spokesman Brad Packer. Talks are ongoing with Mirage Resorts Inc., Millett said.

Both MGM and Park Place will pay about $144,000 for the first year. The MGM will also pay an annual advertising fee of $60,000 per year.

The service is similar to other efforts announced by Las Vegas properties in the past year. In one alliance, National Airlines offers its customers hotel-plane baggage check-in service at the Rio and Harrah's. The Imperial Palace offers a similar check-in service to passengers of American Airlines and Delta Airlines.

In October, the Sahara introduced a hotel-to-plane baggage check-in service through Certified Airline Passenger Services. The service is available to Sahara guests flying on America West Airlines and Delta Airlines.

Bally's hotel-casino, one of Park Place's Strip casinos, is also currently offering the CAPS baggage service. It's unknown if this service will be integrated into the McCarran desk.