TSA allows non-travelers to access gates for PreCheck members
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has launched a new program, TSA Gateside, allowing TSA PreCheck members to pass through security checkpoints without a flight ticket. The program partially restores a practice that disappeared after the September 11, 2001 attacks.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has introduced a new program called TSA Gateside, which permits TSA PreCheck members to proceed through security checkpoints at select airports even without a flight ticket. The initiative aims to allow non-traveling individuals to escort family and friends to the departure gate or greet them upon arrival.
TSA Gateside is exclusively available to members of the TSA PreCheck program. Non-ticketed passengers must apply for a Gateside pass, typically one to three days in advance of their planned visit. Upon approval, the PreCheck member can use the TSA PreCheck lanes for security screening on the designated day.
The program intends to bring back some of the airport experience from before September 11, 2001, when it was common for individuals without tickets to accompany travelers further into the airport. The TSA stated that the program is initially available at 13 airports across the United States, with plans for phased expansion.
TSA Gateside is not a complete return to pre-9/11 security measures and remains restricted to PreCheck members. The service is free for all PreCheck members who successfully obtain a Gateside pass.