At some U.S. airports, saying goodbye to loved ones at security might soon be a thing of the past.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recently introduced Gateside by TSA PreCheck, a new program that allows eligible people without an airline ticket to pass through airport security and accompany travelers all the way to their departure gate. That means friends and family could once again see loved ones off at the gate, welcome them home as soon as they step off the plane, or simply spend a little more time together before a flight.
But before you make plans to meet someone at their gate, keep in mind that the program is still in its pilot phase, and access is limited to participating airports and eligible visitors.
Here's what to know about Gateside by TSA PreCheck, including who qualifies, where it's available, and how it works.
What is Gateside by TSA PreCheck?
Gateside by TSA PreCheck is a new federal program that allows approved visitors without a boarding pass to pass through airport security and enter certain areas of participating U.S. airports.
Traditionally, only ticketed passengers and authorized personnel have been allowed beyond TSA security checkpoints. Gateside creates an exception, giving eligible non-travelers the opportunity to spend a little extra time with a family member or friend before their flight, meet an arriving traveler at their gate, or accompany a traveler who could use extra assistance getting to their gate, such as an older family member or someone traveling with young children.
The program marks a shift toward making airports more accessible to non-travelers, while maintaining security screening requirements.
Gateside isn't the same as TSA PreCheck for travelers, however. While TSA PreCheck is designed to make security screening more convenient for eligible passengers, Gateside is intended to give approved visitors access to the secure side of the airport.
Who is eligible for this program?
Gateside by TSA PreCheck is intended for eligible non-ticketed visitors who want to accompany or meet someone at a participating airport.
However, access isn't automatic. Visitors must meet the program's eligibility requirements and follow the airport's approval process before passing through security.
Depending on the program's requirements, visitors may need to provide identifying information, present an acceptable form of identification, and undergo security screening.
A few important things to keep in mind:
- You don't need to be flying. The purpose of the program is to provide airport access to eligible visitors without a boarding pass.
- Access is subject to approval. Visitors shouldn't assume they'll be allowed through security simply because they're accompanying a traveler.
- Security screening still applies. Approved visitors must follow TSA security procedures and applicable restrictions on prohibited items.
- Participation is limited. Not every U.S. airport offers Gateside, and procedures may differ among participating locations.
Before heading to the airport, check the official TSA Gateside page for current eligibility requirements and instructions.
What airports are participating?
As of publication, there are 13 airports where non-travelers can pass through security checkpoints. These airports are:
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
- Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
- Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
- Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
- San Diego International Airport (SAN)
- Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA)
- John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)
- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)
- Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT)
- Indianapolis International Airport (IND)
- Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT)
- Will Rogers World Airport (OKC)
- Eppley Airfield (OMA)
The TSA initially planned to roll out the program to hundreds of airports across the U.S., but recently dialed these plans back to just those involved in the pilot for now.
Don’t see your airport on the list? Some airports also operate their own visitor pass programs, with separate application processes and rules. Before visiting, check an airport's website to confirm whether non-ticketed visitors are permitted, how to request access, and whether any restrictions apply.
How do you get a Gateside pass?
Unlike a boarding pass, a Gateside visitor pass doesn't allow you to board a flight. Instead, it provides approved access to the secure side of a participating airport.
The exact process may depend on the airport and its visitor access program. In general, visitors should expect to take the following steps:
- Check whether your airport participates. Start by confirming that your departure or arrival airport offers access to non-ticketed visitors.
- Review the eligibility requirements. Find out whether you need to apply in advance, provide identification, or meet other conditions.
- Request a visitor pass, if required. Follow the airport's instructions and wait for confirmation before making plans to enter the secure area.
- Bring the required identification. Be prepared to present your approved pass and any required identification at the security checkpoint.
- Go through security. Visitors must comply with TSA screening procedures before entering the terminal.
Keep in mind that a visitor pass may be valid only for a particular date, time, or terminal. Approval may also depend on airport capacity and security considerations.
What should travelers know before using Gateside?
While the program offers a new way to spend time with loved ones at the airport, there are a few practical considerations.
- Plan ahead. Don't assume a visitor will be able to obtain a pass on arrival, especially if an airport requires advance registration or limits the number of passes issued each day.
- Allow plenty of time for security screening. Even if you're not catching a flight, you'll still need to pass through an approved checkpoint before reaching the gate.
- Remember that access can be restricted or suspended for operational or security reasons. Having a visitor pass doesn't guarantee entry under every circumstance.
Tip: Once you’re through security, use TripIt Pro’s Interactive Airport Maps to navigate to your gate—or another point, such as a lounge, restroom, or restaurant. You’ll get step-by-step walking directions, plus an estimate for how long it will take to get there.
Frequently asked questions about Gateside by TSA PreCheck
Q: Do you need TSA PreCheck to use Gateside?
A: Yes. Gateside is designed for eligible TSA PreCheck members, including qualifying members of trusted traveler programs such as Global Entry. You'll need a valid Known Traveler Number (KTN) to request a visitor pass. However, some airports offer separate visitor pass programs that don't require TSA PreCheck membership.
Q: How much does a Gateside by TSA PreCheck pass cost?
A: Gateside visitor passes are free for eligible TSA PreCheck members. There's no additional fee to request a pass, although you must already be enrolled in an eligible trusted traveler program.
Q: How far in advance do you need to apply for a Gateside pass?
A: You can request a Gateside pass online through the TSA one to three days before your planned airport visit. Because approval isn't guaranteed, it's best to apply as early as the program allows rather than waiting until the day of your visit.
Q: Can you go through airport security without a boarding pass?
Yes, but only under certain circumstances. Gateside allows approved visitors to pass through security at participating airports without an airline ticket. You'll still need an approved visitor pass, acceptable identification, and to complete TSA security screening. Airports with separate visitor pass programs may have different requirements.
Q: Can you use Gateside to meet someone at their arrival gate?
Yes, Gateside allows approved visitors to meet arriving passengers at their gate instead of waiting at baggage claim or outside security. It's also an option for seeing someone off before a flight or spending time with a traveler during a layover. Just make sure the airport participates in the program and that you've received approval before your visit.
