TSA pilots program allowing non-ticketed visitors through security at 13 airports
The Transportation Security Administration has begun a pilot called Gateside by TSA PreCheck, permitting approved non-ticketed guests to clear security and accompany travelers to gates at select U.S. airports.
The Transportation Security Administration launched a pilot program, Gateside by TSA PreCheck, that lets approved non-ticketed visitors pass through security checkpoints at 13 airports across the United States. Participants must hold a TSA PreCheck benefit or Known Traveler Number, apply for a Gateside pass one to three days before travel, and clear the TSA PreCheck screening lane before entering the secure area. The pass does not serve as a boarding pass and does not allow boarding of an aircraft.
Airports currently testing the program include Mesa Gateway Airport in Arizona, John Glenn Columbus International Airport in Ohio, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport in Texas, Detroit Metropolitan Airport in Michigan, Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport in Kansas, Indianapolis International Airport in Indiana, Harry Reid International Airport in Nevada, Los Angeles International Airport in California, Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport in Arkansas, Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma, Eppley Airfield in Nebraska, San Diego International Airport in California, and Salt Lake City International Airport in Utah.
Approved visitors can accompany passengers to departure gates, meet arriving travelers, and use restaurants and shops beyond the checkpoint. At Mesa Gateway Airport, communications director Ryan Smith said the program could help families traveling with elderly parents or young children. > "We have a lot of people, especially our passengers, that may have elderly parents or younger kids who are traveling. They want them to have that experience and be with them right to the end of the process," Smith told ABC15.
John Glenn Columbus International Airport chief Daren Griffin praised the initiative, noting it restores the ability for loved ones to share time in the terminal before a flight. > "This program helps bring back moments that many travelers have missed – welcoming loved ones at the gate, enjoying a meal together before a flight, or simply sharing time in the terminal," Griffin said.
The TSA said the limited rollout will allow the agency to assess the impact of additional visitors on security operations and overall airport flow, with some airports restricting access during peak periods.