Families and friends can once again say goodbye at the airport gate at select US airports. The Transportation Security Administration has introduced Gateside by TSA PreCheck, a new program that allows eligible non-travelers to go beyond airport security without a flight ticket. The program is now available at 13 airports across the United States. Approved visitors can meet arriving passengers at their gate, spend more time with family before departure, or visit restaurants and shops beyond the TSA security checkpoint.
What is Gateside by TSA PreCheck?
Gateside by TSA PreCheck is an airport visitor access program for people who are not flying. Normally, passengers need a valid boarding pass to go through a TSA security checkpoint. Under the program, approved visitors can receive a pass that allows access to the secure side of the terminal. Visitors must still go through TSA security screening. They cannot use the pass to board a flight. The initiative gives families and friends more time together while maintaining normal airport security requirements.
What Can You Do With a TSA Gateside Pass?
A TSA Gateside pass offers several useful options for families and airport visitors. Approved visitors can:
- Walk a family member or friend to their departure gate
- Meet an arriving passenger at the gate
- Spend time with someone during a long airport layover
- Help family members who may need extra assistance
- Eat at restaurants beyond airport security
- Shop at stores inside the secure terminal area
For many families, this means they no longer have to say goodbye before the TSA checkpoint. They may be able to spend time together until boarding begins. Visitors can also welcome loved ones closer to their arrival gate instead of waiting outside the secure area.
Who is Eligible for Gateside by TSA PreCheck?
Not every airport visitor is eligible to enter the secure terminal area. Eligible applicants must have TSA PreCheck benefits through an approved program, such as TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, and a qualifying Known Traveler Number (KTN). Families can also use the program in some cases. Children may be included with an eligible parent or guardian when submitting a Gateside request. TSA reviews each application before granting access. Having TSA PreCheck does not automatically guarantee approval for every visit.
How to Apply for a TSA Gateside Pass
Travelers and their families should apply before going to the airport. The application process includes the following steps:
- Visit the Gateside by TSA PreCheck application page.
- Sign in with a Login.gov account or create one.
- Enter the required personal details.
- Provide the required TSA PreCheck or Known Traveler Number information.
- Select the airport and date of the planned visit.
- Submit the request and wait for approval.
Visitors should generally apply one to three days before their planned airport visit.
After approval, visitors should bring their Gateside pass and an acceptable form of identification to the participating airport. They must then go through a TSA PreCheck security lane before entering the secure terminal area. Airports may limit the number of passes during busy travel periods.
Which Airports Offer Gateside by TSA PreCheck?
Gateside by TSA PreCheck is currently available at 13 US airports:
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport – Texas
- Los Angeles International Airport – California
- San Diego International Airport – California
- Harry Reid International Airport – Las Vegas, Nevada
- Mesa Gateway Airport – Arizona
- Indianapolis International Airport – Indiana
- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport – Michigan
- Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport – Kansas
- John Glenn Columbus International Airport – Ohio
- Salt Lake City International Airport – Utah
- Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport – Little Rock, Arkansas
- Will Rogers International Airport – Oklahoma City
- Eppley Airfield – Omaha, Nebraska
More airports could join as TSA expands the service.
Can You Go Through TSA Without a Plane Ticket?
Yes, approved visitors can go through TSA without a boarding pass at participating airports. However, people cannot simply arrive at an airport and enter the secure area. They must qualify for Gateside, submit an application, receive approval, and complete TSA security screening. The Gateside pass provides access to the secure terminal area only. It does not replace an airline ticket or boarding pass and cannot be used to board an aircraft.
What Travelers Should Know Before Using Gateside
Anyone planning to use Gateside by TSA PreCheck should check the latest rules before visiting an airport. Apply one to three days before the visit, carry an acceptable ID, and keep the approved pass ready at the airport. Approval may depend on visitor limits and airport traffic.
The program currently operates only at selected airports, so confirm that your airport participates before making plans. As TSA expands Gateside to more locations, more families could meet loved ones at the gate or spend additional time together before departure.
If you are planning an international flight, check the latest airport rules before your trip and explore Indian Eagle deals to find affordable fares between the USA and India.
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