Syracuse, New York – The Syracuse Regional Airport Authority (SRAA) announced today more airport tenants are transitioning to cashless operations at Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) in the coming months. Beginning Monday, April 7, 2025; restaurants operated by concessionaire Delaware North will no longer accept cash as payment. Beginning Thursday, May 1, 2025; parking vendor SP+ will no longer accept cash as payment.

Airlines at SYR began phasing out cash payments for ticketing in recent years. This transition was part of a broader industry trend toward electronic payments for increased efficiency and security.

It should be noted this change impacts only the concessions operated by Delaware North and the parking operation. Concessionaire Delaware North currently operates five entities at SYR including Palladino Farms, Johnny Rockets, Dunkin’, Middle Ages Bar & Restaurant, and SYRenity Bar & Market. Paid parking at SYR is managed by SP+ Corporation.

“We’re excited to introduce a fully cashless experience at Syracuse Hancock International Airport, making transactions faster and more convenient,” said Delaware North Regional Vice President Andrew Altomare. “This shift enhances efficiency, allowing us to serve guests more quickly – something we’ve successfully implemented at airports, sports venues and restaurants nationwide. Additionally, we’re expanding our technology offerings with three new Mashgin self-checkout units, which make the process instant and hassle-free.”

On average, cash transactions take approximately four times longer than credit transactions at the parking exit plaza, contributing to traffic backups for those exiting the parking lots. Additionally, the new Designa parking system installed last year provides multiple faster payment options including pay by QR code, tap to pay, and mobile pay. These will all lead to a quicker, more efficient exit process from the parking lots.

“We understand the desire and necessity of our partners in the airport ecosystem to transition to fully cashless operations,” said SRAA Chief Commercial Officer Jason Mehl. “Transitioning more of the airport customer experience to cashless will ultimately improve the efficiency and security of our partners’ operations and lead to a smoother, more enjoyable traveler journey.”

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About the SRAA

The Syracuse Regional Airport Authority (SRAA) operates Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) serving Upstate New York, providing a safe, convenient, seamless passenger experience while enhancing economic opportunity, development, and growth in the region. Established on August 17, 2011, the SRAA officially took over operations of the airport from the City of Syracuse on March 1, 2014. The SRAA’s vision is for SYR to be recognized as a best-in-class airport elevating the customer experience and exceeding stakeholder expectations, while using innovative technology and optimizing the economic prosperity of the region we serve.

To receive a copy of this document translated into a language other than English, please use the Recite Me application on the syrairport.org website, or contact the Title VI Coordinator at CivilRights@syrairport.org, or 315-455-3626.