Gateside by TSA PreCheck: Welcome Visitors to Airport Gates Without a Ticket

For the first time since 2001, the Transportation Security Administration is allowing non-ticketed visitors to pass through airport security and access departure gates. The new program, called Gateside by TSA PreCheck, enables approved individuals to escort family members to their gate, greet arriving passengers, or meet friends during layovers. This initiative restores a tradition that disappeared after the September 11 attacks while maintaining strict security standards through the trusted traveler framework.

[IMAGE 1: Family hugging at airport gate. ALT text: Gateside by TSA PreCheck allows families to reunite at the departure gate without a ticket]

Understanding the Gateside by TSA PreCheck Program

The Transportation Security Administration launched Gateside by TSA PreCheck in September 2026 as a pilot program at 13 U.S. airports. The program allows TSA PreCheck members who are not flying to enter the secure area of an airport. Participants must apply online one to three days in advance, receive approval, and present valid identification at a dedicated TSA PreCheck screening lane.

The TSA designed this program to restore the emotional connections that air travel once allowed. Before 2001, friends and family routinely accompanied travelers to the gate. After 9/11, security restrictions eliminated this practice. Twenty-five years later, the TSA determined that the rigorous vetting process for trusted traveler programs provides sufficient security to reintroduce gate access for non-ticketed visitors.

Eligibility Requirements for Gateside Access

Not everyone can participate in the Gateside by TSA PreCheck program. To qualify, you must meet specific criteria established by the TSA.

Active Trusted Traveler Membership

You must hold an active membership in one of the following programs:

• TSA PreCheck
• Global Entry
• SENTRI
• NEXUS

Each of these programs requires a thorough background check, fingerprinting, and an in-person interview. The TSA considers this level of vetting sufficient to permit secure access to airport terminals. For more details, visit the official TSA Trusted Traveler Programs page.

Known Traveler Number

You must have a Known Traveler Number (KTN). This unique identifier is issued upon approval of your trusted traveler application. You will need this number when completing the online application for a Gateside pass.

Advance Application

You must submit your request online between one and three days before your planned airport visit. Same-day applications are not accepted. The TSA reviews each request individually and does not guarantee approval.

Valid Government-Issued Identification

On the day of your visit, you must present an acceptable form of identification. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, or another form of identification approved by the TSA.

[IMAGE 2: TSA PreCheck lane entrance. ALT text: Gateside by TSA PreCheck participants use dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes for expedited screening]

How to Apply for a Gateside Pass

The application process for Gateside by TSA PreCheck is straightforward but requires attention to detail. Follow these steps to secure your pass.

Step 1: Visit the TSA Website

Navigate to the official Gateside by TSA PreCheck application portal on the TSA website. You can find this under the TSA PreCheck section of the site.

Step 2: Log In or Create an Account

Access the application system using your login.gov credentials. If you do not already have an account, you must create one. This account links to your KTN and personal information.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

Provide your personal details, including your full name, date of birth, and KTN. You will also need to specify the airport you plan to visit and the date of your visit.

Step 4: Submit and Await Approval

After submitting your application, check your dashboard regularly for approval status. The TSA will notify you if your request is approved or denied. Approval is not automatic and depends on various factors, including airport capacity and security considerations.

Step 5: Prepare for Your Visit

If approved, you will receive digital confirmation. This confirmation must be accessible on your mobile device or through your online account. Printed copies and screenshots are not accepted at the security checkpoint.

Airports Participating in the Pilot Program

The Gateside by TSA PreCheck pilot launched at 13 airports across the United States. The TSA selected these locations based on passenger volume, terminal infrastructure, and operational feasibility.

List of Participating Airports

• Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) – Arizona
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – California
• San Diego International Airport (SAN) – California
• Denver International Airport (DEN) – Colorado
• Indianapolis International Airport (IND) – Indiana
• Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) – Kansas
• Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) – Michigan
• Eppley Airfield (OMA) – Nebraska
• Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) – Nevada
• John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) – Ohio
• Will Rogers World Airport (OKC) – Oklahoma
• Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) – Texas
• Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) – Utah

The TSA plans to expand the program to additional airports in 2027 based on the success of this initial pilot phase.

Permitted Activities With a Gateside Pass

Once you clear security with a Gateside by TSA PreCheck pass, you gain access to the secure terminal area. This access allows you to perform several activities.

Escort Departing Travelers

You can accompany family members or friends directly to their departure gate. This allows for meaningful goodbyes and assistance with carry-on luggage or mobility needs.

Greet Arriving Passengers

You can meet arriving travelers as they exit the aircraft. This is particularly valuable for welcoming service members returning from deployment or relatives traveling from overseas.

Meet During Layovers

If you live near an airport, you can meet a friend or family member during a layover. This provides an opportunity to share a meal or spend time together without requiring the traveler to leave the secure area.

Access Airport Amenities

You can dine at airport restaurants, shop at retail stores, and use other facilities located beyond the security checkpoint.

[IMAGE 3: Traveler showing digital approval at checkpoint. ALT text: Gateside by TSA PreCheck approval must be displayed digitally at the security checkpoint]

Rules and Restrictions

While Gateside by TSA PreCheck offers significant benefits, participants must comply with all security regulations. Failure to do so can result in revocation of the pass and potential legal consequences.

Standard Screening Procedures Apply

Visitors must follow the same screening protocols as ticketed passengers. This includes the 3-1-1 liquids rule, removal of electronics from bags when required, and cooperation with TSA officers during the screening process.

Pass Validity

The Gateside pass is valid for a single calendar day. You may enter and exit the secure area multiple times during that day, provided you retain your pass and identification.

No Guarantee of Entry

Even with an approved pass, entry is not guaranteed. The TSA and participating airports reserve the right to deny access based on operational needs, security concerns, or capacity limitations.

Children and Accompanying Guests

Parents or guardians with an approved Gateside pass may bring children with them. Children must be included in the advance reservation. The TSA recommends verifying this requirement with the specific airport before your visit.

Prohibited Items

All prohibited items, including weapons, flammable materials, and restricted liquids, are strictly forbidden in the secure area. Violations may result in civil or criminal penalties.

Comparison With Other Visitor Pass Programs

Gateside by TSA PreCheck is not the only program allowing non-ticketed airport access. Several airports have operated similar initiatives for years, though with different requirements.

Existing Airport Visitor Programs

• Pittsburgh (myPITpass): Launched in 2017, this program allowed visitors to access the terminal but was suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Seattle-Tacoma (SEA Visitor Pass): This program offers limited visitor access but requires standard screening rather than TSA PreCheck lanes.
• San Diego (SAN Pass): Provides access to the secure area but requires advance registration and standard screening.
• San Francisco (Gate Explorer Pass): Allows visitors to explore the terminal but uses standard security lanes.

The key difference is that Gateside by TSA PreCheck leverages the trusted traveler infrastructure, allowing participants to use expedited screening lanes and potentially reducing wait times.

Impact on Travelers and Families

The reintroduction of gate access has significant emotional and practical implications for travelers, families, and airports.

Emotional Benefits

For many families, the ability to say goodbye at the gate or welcome a loved one upon arrival is deeply meaningful. These moments were lost after 9/11, and their return represents a restoration of normalcy and human connection in air travel.

Practical Advantages

Travelers with mobility issues, young children, or heavy luggage benefit from assistance at the gate. Families can also coordinate more effectively during layovers or connections.

Airport Revenue

Airports benefit economically from increased foot traffic in the secure area. Visitors often spend money at restaurants, shops, and other concessions, boosting revenue for terminal operators.

Security Considerations

The TSA emphasizes that security remains the top priority. By restricting the program to pre-vetted individuals, the agency balances convenience with safety. As one TSA official stated, “The only individuals allowed to enter are already pre-vetted through the Known Traveler Number system.”

[IMAGE 4: Passengers dining at airport restaurant. ALT text: Gateside by TSA PreCheck allows visitors to enjoy airport restaurants and shops beyond security]

Future Expansion of the Program

The Gateside by TSA PreCheck program is currently in a pilot phase. The TSA will evaluate its performance over the coming months and determine whether to expand it to additional airports.

Expected Growth

Based on initial feedback, the TSA expects to add more airports to the program in 2027. Travelers should monitor the official TSA website for announcements about new participating locations.

Potential Enhancements

Future iterations of the program may include streamlined application processes, mobile app integration, and expanded eligibility criteria. The TSA is also exploring partnerships with airlines to facilitate smoother access for visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gateside by TSA PreCheck free?

Yes, the program is free for eligible TSA PreCheck members. There is no additional cost to apply for or use a Gateside pass.

How far in advance must I apply?

You must apply between one and three days before your planned visit. Same-day applications are not accepted.

Can I use the pass at any airport?

Currently, the pass is valid only at the 13 participating airports. The TSA plans to expand the program in the future.

What happens if my application is denied?

If your application is denied, you will not be permitted to access the secure area. You may reapply for a future date if desired.

Can I bring guests who are not TSA PreCheck members?

No, each visitor must hold an active TSA PreCheck or other trusted traveler membership and receive individual approval for a Gateside pass.

Conclusion

The Gateside by TSA PreCheck program marks a significant shift in U.S. airport security policy. By allowing pre-vetted, non-ticketed visitors to access departure gates, the TSA has restored a tradition that many travelers have missed for over two decades. The program offers emotional and practical benefits for families, enhances airport revenue, and maintains rigorous security standards through the trusted traveler framework.

If you hold a TSA PreCheck membership and live near one of the 13 participating airports, consider applying for a Gateside pass. Whether you want to escort a loved one to their gate, welcome an arriving passenger, or simply experience the terminal from a new perspective, this program offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with the human side of air travel.