The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has launched its “Gateside by TSA PreCheck” program at 13 airports, allowing approved people to enter an airport’s secure airside terminal without holding a plane ticket.

This visitor pass-type program isn’t a new concept, and is already done on a per airport basis at over 20 airports across the United States, but it does represent a major relaxation in security policies for the TSA.

The Gateside program is geared towards those who might need to accompany someone to their gate, or meet an arriving passenger, or maybe even visit someone during their layover. The pass gives you pretty much the same privileges as a traveler with the exception of being able to board an aircraft.

“The Golden Age of Travel is taking off. Gateside by TSA PreCheck provides members with access to the terminal beyond airport security, even when they aren’t flying. Just use your KTN to apply and use the same dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes for a smoother entry. As an exclusive benefit for our most trusted travelers, this new program makes it easier to return to the gate for welcomes and send-offs, meet friends during a layover, and enjoy dining and shopping along the way, bringing back the moments that once defined air travel.”

Surprisingly, this allowance comes at no extra cost to those who have an active Known Traveler Number associated with TSA PreCheck or another qualifying federal/trusted-traveler program. Those interested in visiting the secure area of the terminal will need to apply for access at least one day in advance.

There are daily limits, and access could be limited during peak periods. While these numbers are generally not made public, some airports like San Jose limit passes to 75 persons per day per checkpoint.

So far 13 airports are participating in the TSA program including:

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

Before September 11, 2001 attacks, non-ticketed persons were able to access the secure area of airport terminals, allowing them to meet or send of passengers.

It’s definitely an interesting concept and I suspect the shops and restaurants may be in favor as it could potentially bring in more revenue as the pass allows you to stay in the secured area for an entire day.

Besides the recommended reasons, I wouldn’t be surprised if you occasionally get those trying to do some remote work seeking a change in environment, or plane spotters trying to snap a few photos without the need to purchase a plane ticket.

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