TSA's new 'Gateside' pilot lets non-ticketed visitors pass security at 14 U.S. airports, including Salt Lake City

Key points

• Salt Lake City International Airport is one of 14 U.S. airports participating in the TSA's 'Gateside by TSA PreCheck' pilot, which began on September 2, 2026.
• The program allows non-travelers with TSA PreCheck enrollment to pass security to meet family, join friends on layovers, or greet service members, provided they apply for a day pass 1-3 days in advance via secure.login.gov.
• TSA spokesperson Dan Velez stated the pilot was not specifically designed for LDS missionary homecomings but aims to create a 'friendlier' travel atmosphere as part of the 'golden age of travel' initiative.
• Fresno Yosemite International Airport is considering a separate, potentially broader gate pass program for late 2026, which would not require TSA PreCheck but would involve online or kiosk registration 24 hours to 7 days in advance.
• The pilot includes airports such as Phoenix-Mesa Gateway, Dallas Fort Worth, Los Angeles International, and Chicago Midway, with potential expansion if the program proves successful.

Background

This development follows a broader trend of U.S. airports relaxing post-9/11 security restrictions. As noted in our archive, security policies have evolved with advanced technology, allowing changes like keeping shoes on at checkpoints and opening dedicated family lanes. The Fresno Bee notes that 21 U.S. airports already allowed non-ticketed individuals to pass security as of June 2026, including San Francisco, Seattle-Tacoma, and Kansas City, following Pittsburgh International Airport's 2017 lead. Recent security incidents, such as the unattended ICE gun found at SFO in August 2026, have prompted ongoing scrutiny of airport security protocols, though the TSA emphasizes that safety remains the top priority in these new programs.

How outlets are covering it

The Salt Lake Tribune emphasizes the program's impact on LDS missionary homecomings and long layovers, noting that while the new airport's 2020 design included a public greeting room for this purpose, the TSA's pilot was not specifically tailored to this need. KUTV's coverage, though largely obscured by technical code, confirms the program's focus on allowing non-ticketed visitors through security. The Fresno Bee highlights a different approach, with Fresno airport considering a program that does not require TSA PreCheck, contrasting with the TSA's pilot which mandates PreCheck enrollment. The Fresno Bee also notes concerns about potential overcrowding and security relaxation, with airport director Mark Thorpe emphasizing that safety remains paramount. The Salt Lake Tribune and Fresno Bee both acknowledge the program as part of a broader 'golden age of travel' vision, but differ in their implementation details and eligibility requirements.

Why it matters

The TSA's 'Gateside by TSA PreCheck' pilot represents a significant shift in U.S. airport security policy, potentially improving the travel experience for families and service members by allowing non-ticketed visitors to pass security. The program's success could lead to expansion to more airports, while Fresno's separate consideration of a gate pass program highlights the varying approaches airports are taking to balance security with passenger experience. These changes reflect a broader trend toward loosening post-9/11 restrictions, though they also raise questions about security and overcrowding.

What to watch

The TSA will evaluate the pilot program's success at the 14 participating airports, with potential expansion to other airports with the required screening technology. Fresno Yosemite International Airport aims to implement its gate pass program by the end of 2026, with details on access and restrictions still being devised. The TSA's 'golden age of travel' initiative may lead to further changes in security policies, such as additional family lanes or relaxed screening requirements.