The TSA has launched Gateside by TSA PreCheck, a pilot that lets approved non‑ticketed visitors pass TSA screening and enter secure gate areas at 13 U.S. airports. Applicants must have TSA PreCheck benefits or a Known Traveler Number and apply 1–3 days before their visit; the Gateside pass allows entry through the PreCheck lane but is not a boarding pass. The limited trial is designed to restore social travel moments while allowing TSA to evaluate effects on checkpoint flow and operations.
TSA Pilots 'Gateside' Pass Letting Approved Guests Walk to the Gate at 13 U.S. Airports
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The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has launched a pilot called Gateside by TSA PreCheck that allows approved, non‑ticketed visitors to pass through security and enter secure gate areas at 13 U.S. airports. The limited trial restores one of the more visible pre‑9/11 travel experiences—walking a loved one to the gate—while keeping all standard screening procedures in place.
How Gateside Works
Non‑ticketed visitors approved for Gateside must complete TSA screening before accessing the sterile side of the terminal. Applicants need existing TSA PreCheck benefits or a Known Traveler Number and must apply in advance to receive a Gateside pass. The pass permits entry through the TSA PreCheck lane with acceptable ID but is not a boarding pass and does not allow aircraft access.
Steps To Participate
- Have TSA PreCheck benefits or a Known Traveler Number (KTN).
- Apply for a Gateside pass through TSA between 1 and 3 days before your planned visit.
- If approved, present the Gateside pass and valid ID at the TSA PreCheck lane to be screened and enter the gate area.
Where the Pilot Is Active
The pilot is currently available at 13 airports across the United States:
- Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) — Mesa, Arizona
- John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) — Columbus, Ohio
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) — Texas
- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) — Michigan
- Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) — Kansas
- Indianapolis International Airport (IND) — Indiana
- Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) — Las Vegas, Nevada
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) — California
- Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT) — Little Rock, Arkansas
- Will Rogers World Airport (OKC) — Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Eppley Airfield (OMA) — Omaha, Nebraska
- San Diego International Airport (SAN) — California
- Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) — Utah
Why the Pilot Matters
Before the September 11, 2001 attacks, non‑flying members of the public commonly entered gate areas. In the years after 9/11, access was tightened and generally limited to ticketed passengers and authorized persons, with narrow exceptions for assisting minors or travelers with disabilities. Gateside relaxes who can enter gate areas but maintains full TSA screening requirements.
"This innovative program helps bring back special 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," said Daren Griffin, president and CEO of the Columbus Regional Airport Authority, as reported by The Columbus Dispatch.
Airport officials participating in the pilot have emphasized benefits for families and people assisting elderly or disabled travelers. TSA says the trial will help the agency study impacts on checkpoint flow and overall operations; availability may be restricted during peak periods.
TSA described Gateside as "an exclusive benefit for our most trusted travelers" that makes it easier to return to the gate for welcomes and send‑offs, meet friends during a layover, and enjoy dining and shopping after screening, according to local reporting. Newsweek contacted TSA for comment.
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