The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has launched a new program at select U.S. airports that allows some people without plane tickets to go through security.
The program, called Gateside by TSA PreCheck, lets eligible TSA PreCheck members enter the secure area at participating airports to meet or see off family and friends at their gate.
“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,” TSA stated.
“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,” it continued.
TSA has launched a new pilot program allowing some people without plane tickets to pass through security and access airport gates at 13 U.S. airports.
The free “Gateside” program is open to TSA PreCheck members who apply one to three days in advance, letting them meet loved ones… pic.twitter.com/ksnERGJyWs
— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) September 8, 2026
ABC News shared further:
The program offers a new way for people without boarding passes to access airport gates, which has been heavily restricted since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
ADVERTISEMENTTo use Gateside, visitors must have TSA PreCheck benefits and a Known Traveler Number, or KTN.
Visitors can apply online for a Gateside pass between one and three days before their planned airport visit. The Gateside pass is free and valid only for the approved visit.
Once approved, visitors must bring an acceptable form of identification and their Gateside approval to the airport and go through a TSA PreCheck security lane.
Visitors who do not have an acceptable form of identification can use TSA ConfirmID to verify their identity for a $45 fee, according to TSA.
The 13 participating airports include:
- 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
NPR noted:
Though only 13 airports are currently offering Gateside, TSA Administrator David Cummins says that number could grow fast:
“We’re hoping to have all 430 airports rolled out by the end of the year.”
About 20 U.S. airports already offer day passes for visitors. Cummins says the TSA heard from people who want the option at their local airport.
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