TSA PreCheck Members Can Now Enter Airport Gates Without a Ticket at Select Airports
Ever wished you could walk a loved one all the way to their gate? That could soon be possible again at some U.S. airports. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has…
Ever wished you could walk a loved one all the way to their gate? That could soon be possible again at some U.S. airports. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has launched a new program called Gateside by TSA PreCheck. It allows eligible TSA PreCheck members to enter secure airport areas even when they are not flying.
The program brings back an experience that largely disappeared after the September 11, 2001, attacks.
“As an exclusive benefit for our most trusted travelers, this new program makes it easier to return to the gate for welcomes and send-offs, meet friends during a layover, and enjoy dining and shopping along the way, bringing back the moments that once defined air travel,” the TSA statement reads.
How the New TSA Program Works
Gateside gives approved TSA PreCheck members access to airport gates without a boarding pass.
The program could be useful for people who want to:
- Say goodbye to family or friends before a flight
- Welcome someone arriving at the airport
- Meet someone during a long layover
- Grab a meal or shop inside the secure terminal area
There is no additional fee for the Gateside pass. However, travelers must apply ahead of time. Applications must be submitted one to three days before the planned airport visit. Applicants will use their Known Traveler Number when applying.
If approved, the Gateside pass is valid for one calendar day. Visitors can also re-enter the secure area that same day.
Which Airports Are Participating?
The program is currently available at 13 airports across the United States.
Participating airports include:
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport
- Los Angeles International Airport
- Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas
- Salt Lake City International Airport
- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport
- San Diego International Airport
- Indianapolis International Airport
- John Glenn Columbus International Airport
- Mesa Gateway Airport
- Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport
- Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport
- Will Rogers International Airport
- Eppley Airfield
The TSA says more airports could join the program in the coming months.
There Is a Catch
Not everyone who applies will automatically receive access. Each participating airport has a daily limit on Gateside visitors. Availability could be more limited during busy travel periods.
Approved visitors also need proper identification when they arrive. They will still go through airport security before entering the gate area.
The program does not mean non-ticketed visitors can show up and walk through security. Advance approval is required.
A Return to Pre-9/11 Airport Travel
Before 9/11, it was common for friends and family members to accompany travelers to the gate. Security changes following the attacks largely ended that practice. The new TSA program offers a limited return to that tradition while still requiring visitors to go through security screening.
For families saying goodbye, people meeting loved ones after a flight, or anyone looking to spend time together before a trip, that could make the airport experience feel a little different.
