The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has launched the Gateside by TSA PreCheck program, allowing approved visitors to enter secure airport terminal areas without holding an airline ticket. The initiative gives eligible people access to secure airport areas beyond security checkpoints, even when they are not travelling by air.
The program aims to make airport visits more convenient for families, friends, and visitors who want to accompany departing passengers, welcome arriving travellers, or spend time inside airport terminals.
How Does the Gateside by TSA PreCheck Program Work?
The TSA Gateside program allows approved individuals to enter the secure side of participating airport terminals without a boarding pass. Visitors cannot board flights, but they can enjoy many facilities available to passengers, including restaurants, shops, and seating areas. Unlike traditional airport access rules that limit secure terminal areas to ticketed passengers, this program creates a controlled opportunity for non-travellers to experience the airport environment. Visitors must complete an approval process before entering the secure area and follow all airport security requirements.
Who Can Use TSA Gateside Airport Access?
The new airport visitor program is designed for several types of visitors.
Helping Families and Friends:
The Gateside program allows people to accompany loved ones to departure gates. Visitors can also use the program to welcome arriving passengers after they land.
Meeting Travellers During Layovers:
It also provides an option for meeting friends or family members during long layovers. Approved visitors can enter the secure terminal area and spend time together before the traveller continues their journey.
Enjoying Airport Facilities:
Visitors with approved access can explore airport dining, shopping, and other terminal services without purchasing a flight ticket.
How to Apply for Gateside by TSA PreCheck Access
Eligible visitors can apply for access using their Known Traveler Number (KTN) linked to TSA PreCheck or another qualifying trusted traveller program. The application process requires visitors to request access at least one day before their planned airport visit.
Rules and Limitations of TSA Gateside Access
- Visitors cannot board aircraft.
- Approval is required before entry.
- Airports can limit daily visitors.
- Access may change during peak travel periods.
- Security screening remains mandatory.
Eligible TSA PreCheck members can use the program without paying an additional fee.
Airports Participating in the TSA Gateside Program
The TSA Gateside program is currently available at 13 airports across the United States.
| Airport | Location |
| Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) | Texas |
| Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) | Nevada |
| Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) | California |
| Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) | Kansas |
| Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) | Utah |
| Indianapolis International Airport (IND) | Indiana |
| San Diego International Airport (SAN) | California |
| John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) | Ohio |
| Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT) | Arkansas |
| Will Rogers International Airport (OKC) | Oklahoma |
| Eppley Airfield (OMA) | Nebraska |
| Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) | Arizona |
| Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) | Michigan |
The number of visitors allowed may vary by airport, and access can be limited during busy travel periods.
Benefits of the TSA Gateside Program
The new airport visitor pass program could provide benefits for travellers, visitors, and airport businesses.
Families and Travellers
- More time for farewells before departures.
- Easier airport welcomes after arrivals.
- Better support for passengers who may need assistance.
Airports
- Increased visitor activity inside terminals.
- Potential growth for airport restaurants and retail stores.
- Increased engagement with airport facilities.
Visitors
- Opportunity to experience airports without booking flights.
- More convenient meetings during travel connections.
The TSA Gateside program changes how people interact with airports by allowing approved non-ticketed visitors to enter secure terminal areas. From welcoming loved ones to enjoying airport facilities, the program creates new possibilities while maintaining security standards. With more airports exploring ways to improve passenger experiences, visitor access programs could become an important part of the future of airport hospitality.
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