Mid Life Travel Pro

Remember when you could walk someone all the way to their airport gate, wave them off as they boarded their flight, or be standing there waiting when they stepped off the plane?

For most of us, that ended after September 11, 2001. Since then, airport security has generally been the point where you say your goodbyes unless you happen to be traveling too.

But that is starting to change.

The TSA has introduced a new program called Gateside by TSA PreCheck, which allows approved people who aren’t actually flying to pass through airport security and enter the secure part of participating airports.

That means you could potentially walk a family member to their gate, meet someone when they arrive, spend time with a friend who has a long layover — or even just head through security to eat or shop at the airport!

And for anyone who remembers air travel before 9/11, it feels a little nostaligic.

What Is Gateside by TSA PreCheck?

Gateside by TSA PreCheck is a free program that allows eligible non-ticketed visitors to apply for access beyond airport security.

There is one important catch: you need to have TSA PreCheck benefits and a Known Traveler Number (KTN) to apply.

You can apply online between one and three days before your planned airport visit. If approved, you’ll receive a Gateside pass that is valid for that particular visit.

At the airport, you’ll need your Gateside approval and an acceptable form of identification. You’ll then go through a TSA PreCheck security lane just as you would if you were actually flying.

You are still going through airport security, so the usual TSA rules about what you can and cannot bring through the checkpoint apply.

Children can accompany a parent or guardian but need to be included on the adult’s application.

Which Airports Offer Gateside by TSA PreCheck?

At launch, Gateside is available at 13 U.S. airports:

• Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA)
• John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)
• Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
• Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)
• Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT)
• Indianapolis International Airport (IND)
• Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas (LAS)
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
• Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport in Little Rock (LIT)
• Will Rogers International Airport in Oklahoma City (OKC)
• Eppley Airfield in Omaha (OMA)
• San Diego International Airport (SAN)
• Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)

TSA says it is evaluating the program with a view to expanding it to additional airports, so this is definitely one to keep an eye on.

What Could You Use a Gateside Pass For?

This is where I think the program could be genuinely useful.

Imagine taking an elderly parent to the airport and being able to make sure they find their gate and get settled before you leave.

Or perhaps your teenager or college-aged child is taking their first flight alone and you’d feel better walking them all the way to the gate.

You could meet a family member as they step off the plane.

And if a friend has a three-hour layover at your local airport, you could potentially go through security and have lunch with them, which is personally something I would love to do!

Of course, TSA also points out that you can use a Gateside pass simply to enjoy the airport’s restaurants and stores — great news if you’re an one of those wierd airport fans like me!!

Some Airports Already Have Their Own Visitor Passes

Here’s where it gets slightly confusing.

Gateside by TSA PreCheck isn’t the only way to get through airport security without a boarding pass.

Several U.S. airports already operate their own visitor pass programs, and some of these do not require you to have TSA PreCheck.

These include airports such as Orlando, Tampa, Seattle, San Diego, San Antonio, Ontario, Palm Springs and others.

The rules and application process vary depending on the airport, so even if your local airport isn’t currently participating in Gateside, it’s worth checking the airport’s own website to see whether it offers a visitor pass.

For Florida travelers in particular, Orlando International Airport has its Experience MCO Visitor Pass, while Tampa International Airport offers TPA All Access.

So there may already be an option closer to home.

Is Gateside Worth Using?

I think so — but probably not because I desperately want access to airport shopping, or overpriced dining options.

But being able to accompany an elderly relative, a nervous traveler or young adult to their gate could take a lot of stress out of traveling.

And there are also those more sentimental moments such as seeing someone off on a long trip, meeting a family member returning after months away, or simply spending another hour with someone before they leave.

Click on this link for further information: https://www.tsa.gov/precheck/gateside-tsa-precheck?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Because Gateside is a new program and participating airports and requirements may change, always check the TSA website for the latest information before making plans.