The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced a new service that restores a long‑lost convenience for families and friends traveling together. Called “Gateside by TSA PreCheck,” the program lets eligible PreCheck members who do not have a plane ticket move through security and enter the secure gate area at select airports.
How the program works
Applicants must submit an online request one to three days before their intended visit and receive approval before heading to the airport. Once approved, they can use a TSA PreCheck lane with a valid form of identification. The gate pass is free, valid for a single calendar day, and can be used for multiple entries that day.
Travelers who belong to other trusted‑traveler programs and possess a Known Traveler Number (KTN) are also eligible to apply for the same gate access.
Initial rollout
The TSA is launching the service at 13 airports, including major hubs such as Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Dallas‑Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, and Salt Lake City International Airport. The agency says it plans to expand the program to additional airports in the coming months.
Why the change matters
Before the September 11, 2001 attacks, it was common for friends and relatives to accompany travelers all the way to the gate. Security reforms after the attacks eliminated that practice, creating a more rigid separation between the public terminal and the secure boarding area. The new Gateside program revives the “welcome and send‑off” moments that many families cherished, while still maintaining the security standards that keep the traveling public safe.
According to the TSA, the service also benefits the airport economy. By allowing approved visitors to shop and dine in the secure terminal, airlines and concessionaires can see increased revenue, and travelers gain a more pleasant airport experience.
What passengers need to know
- Apply online at least one day before the visit.
- Provide a government‑issued ID and your Known Traveler Number.
- The gate pass is free and good for one calendar day.
- Access is currently limited to the 13 participating airports.
Travelers who are not members of a trusted‑traveler program can still enroll in TSA PreCheck, which offers expedited screening for eligible flyers. Once enrolled, they can also apply for the Gateside benefit when they need to accompany someone without a ticket.
Looking ahead
The TSA says it will monitor the program’s usage and security impact closely, with the goal of expanding the service to more airports nationwide. The agency emphasizes that the program is an “exclusive benefit for our most trusted travelers,” reinforcing the idea that those who have earned a Known Traveler Number can enjoy added conveniences without compromising safety.
As the United States celebrates nearly 25 years since the tragic events of September 11, the Gateside by PreCheck initiative reflects a balanced approach: honoring the security lessons of the past while restoring a touch of normalcy for families and friends gathering at the gate.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
