Twenty-five years after the September 11 attacks transformed airport security by sealing off terminals to non-passengers, the Transportation Security Administration has reintroduced limited gate access for certain individuals. The new program, titled “Gateside by TSA PreCheck,” permits eligible trusted travelers without boarding passes to proceed through security checkpoints and visit departure gates.
In a statement on its website, the TSA described the initiative as an exclusive benefit designed to restore pre-9/11 travel customs. The agency noted that the change makes it simpler for families and friends to host arrivals, farewells, and layover meetups, or to partake in dining and shopping within secure zones.
The program is currently free, though participants must apply online one to three days prior to their intended visit and secure approval before arriving at the airport. Approved applicants may use TSA PreCheck lanes upon presenting a valid form of identification. Each pass remains valid for a single calendar day, with unlimited reentries permitted during that period. Individuals holding Known Traveler Numbers through other trusted-traveler programs are also eligible to apply.
Initially, the program will be operational at 13 airports, including Los Angeles International Airport, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, and Salt Lake City International Airport. The TSA indicated plans to expand the pilot to additional locations in the coming months.
Prior to the 2001 terrorist attacks, individuals without tickets were generally permitted to accompany passengers to their gates. In the aftermath of 9/11, sweeping security reforms restricted access to airport secure areas, effectively ending the practice for most visitors.
Free access sounds nice, but will it just clog up the PreCheck lanes? Hope they manage the crowds well.
Finally! Bringing my mom to my gate was the best part of childhood travel. Glad this is coming back.