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Want to walk a friend to the gate or meet someone arriving from a trip? In some airports, you may no longer need a boarding pass to get beyond the security checkpoint.
To be eligible for the Gateside by TSA PreCheck program, individuals must meet specific membership, application, and identification criteria. — WWW.TSA.Gov.
The Transportation Security Administration introduced the Gateside by TSA PreCheck program, which allows eligible members of TSA PreCheck and trusted-traveler programs to visit airport gates, helping them feel recognized and part of a trusted community, even when not flying.
The change restores a practice common before the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, when non-ticketed visitors could generally accompany travelers to the gate.
New security measures introduced after the attacks significantly restricted access to secure airport areas.
According to TSA, the new program offers more than just greetings and farewells. Approved visitors can meet friends during a layover or shop and dine beyond security, making airport visits more flexible and enjoyable.
There is no fee to participate, but visitors must request access online 1 to 3 days before their planned airport visit.
Once approved, they can use a TSA PreCheck security lane and present an acceptable form of identification.
The authorization lasts for one day, and visitors can leave and return during that same day.
Travelers enrolled in other trusted-traveler programs may also qualify if they have a Known Traveler Number.
Those in the program must have an active TSA PreCheck membership or receive benefits through another qualifying trusted traveler program, such as Global Entry.
TSA Now Allows Some People to Go Beyond Airport Security Without a Plane Ticket.
The program currently operates at 13 airports, including Los Angeles International Airport, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, and Salt Lake City International Airport.
TSA expects more airports to join soon.
The concept isn’t entirely new. Pittsburgh International Airport introduced its myPITpass program in 2017, and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport launched the SEA Visitor Pass the following year. Philadelphia International Airport and Kansas City International Airport also operate similar programs.
Trusted Non-ticked visitors must already be active TSA PreCheck members or belong to a qualifying trusted traveler program with a valid Known Traveler Number. CBS News
Gateside by TSA PreCheck lets approved guests visit airport gates for a day—find eligibility, steps to apply online, and usage details.
Jessica is a freelance journalist on a quest to see and experience everything our gorgeous planet offers and share her experiences with her fellow travelers. Jessica has written for several world-class Travel Magazines.
