TSA Revives Gate Access for Trusted Travelers Without Tickets at 13 Airports

Key points

• The program is currently active at 13 airports, including Los Angeles International, Dallas-Fort Worth, Las Vegas, and Salt Lake City, with plans for further expansion.
• Eligibility is restricted to TSA PreCheck members and individuals with a Known Traveler Number from other trusted traveler programs like Global Entry.
• Applicants must request access online one to three days in advance and receive approval before arriving at the airport; spontaneous access is not permitted.
• Approved visitors receive a one-day pass that allows reentry and requires valid identification, facilitating welcomes, send-offs, and layover meetups.
• The initiative marks a significant shift from the post-9/11 security model that previously prohibited non-ticket holders from passing through security checkpoints.

Background

Prior to the September 11, 2001, attacks, it was common for friends and family to accompany travelers to the gate. Following the attacks, access to secure areas was strictly limited to ticketed passengers. While some airports like Pittsburgh and Seattle-Tacoma implemented local gate-access programs between 2017 and 2018, the current TSA-led initiative represents the first federal-wide effort to standardize this practice for trusted travelers.

How outlets are covering it

The Washington Post and The New York Times emphasize the cultural revival of pre-2001 airport rituals, noting that the program allows for emotional goodbyes and meetups that were previously impossible. CBS News highlights the practical benefits, such as dining and shopping access during layovers, and notes that several airports already had local versions of this program. All sources agree that the advance application requirement prevents spontaneous access, balancing convenience with security. The New York Times specifically mentions Global Entry as another eligible program, while CBS News details the specific airports included in the initial rollout.

Why it matters

This policy change signals a potential shift in U.S. airport security philosophy, moving from a blanket restriction on non-ticket holders to a risk-based approach that trusts vetted travelers. It could improve the passenger experience by allowing more personal interactions and flexibility, potentially influencing future security policies and airport operations nationwide.

What to watch

The TSA plans to expand the Gateside program to additional airports in the coming months. The agency will likely monitor the program's effectiveness and security implications before deciding on a broader national rollout. Travelers should check the TSA website for updates on which airports will join the program.