Networking Beyond Security at Palm Springs International Airport
By Valerie Milano
Palm Springs, CA (The Hollywood Times) 2/24/26 – Proud members of the Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce, The Hollywood Times was pleased to attend the joint networking mixer hosted in partnership with the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce and Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) on Tuesday, February 24.
Held inside the airport terminal from 4:00–6:00 p.m., the event offered business and community leaders a rare opportunity to gather beyond security, an experience made possible through PSP’s unique Stay & Play Visitor Pass program.
The invitation emphasized arriving early, parking across the street at Palm Springs City Hall, and registering in advance for the Stay & Play pass. While the process is designed “to ensure a smooth arrival,” navigating security with a visitor pass wasn’t without its challenges. Even with advance registration and proper TSA-approved identification, it took patience and a little extra time.
That said, once through security, the atmosphere shifted into something distinctly Palm Springs, relaxed, welcoming, and community focused.
The mixer highlighted PSP’s mission of delivering “unforgettable hospitality” while providing updates on:
- Future airport improvements
- Air service development
- Strategic partnerships
- PSP’s role in supporting regional tourism and the local economy
Guests enjoyed light bites generously provided by local favorite Trio Restaurant, a delicious reminder of how local businesses continue to support civic events.
While there was no open bar (drinks were available for purchase), the food and conversation flowed freely. A talented two-piece band, featuring a female vocalist and male guitarist, performed cover songs that perfectly complemented the upbeat, professional energy of the evening.
Attendees participated in a lively raffle, walking booth-to-booth to get their cards stamped while learning more about the airport’s future vision and business opportunities. It was an interactive and clever way to encourage engagement.
I brought my friend Nicki Fischer, author of The Fischer Method™: The Inside-Out Revolution, and together we enjoyed reconnecting with colleagues while gaining deeper insight into how PSP continues to expand its reach and impact.
The Palm Springs Chamber continues to foster meaningful connections among business leaders, entrepreneurs, and civic partners. Hosting a mixer inside the airport, quite literally at the gateway to our desert community, underscored PSP’s vital role in economic development and tourism growth.
As a thoughtful finishing touch, guests even departed with a bit of PSP swag, branded luggage tags and sleek hot/cold beverage bottles, practical reminders of the airport’s commitment to hospitality and smart travel. It was a small but appreciated gesture that sent everyone home feeling connected not only to the business community, but to the evolving identity of PSP itself.
While accessing the event required a few additional steps, the behind-the-scenes perspective and collaborative spirit made it worthwhile.
In Palm Springs, even networking can feel like a departure lounge for new possibilities.
