TSA's Gateside Pass Lets Non-Flyers Through Security at 13 Airports, Including LAX

What changed

Since 2001, only ticketed passengers could pass US airport security. A handful of airports have run their own visitor-pass programs in recent years (Pittsburgh, Seattle, Detroit, Kansas City among them), but those are airport-specific and usually first-come, first-served.

Gateside is different because it is a TSA program tied to PreCheck: the vetting is already done, so the agency is comfortable letting members through the PreCheck lane as visitors. Airport officials quoted in the coverage framed it as bringing back the moment of walking someone to the gate or meeting them as they step off.

Where it works (pilot airports)

Code	Airport
AZA	Mesa Gateway (Phoenix area)
CMH	John Glenn Columbus
DFW	Dallas Fort Worth
DTW	Detroit Metropolitan
ICT	Wichita Eisenhower
IND	Indianapolis
LAS	Las Vegas Harry Reid
LAX	Los Angeles International (Tom Bradley / TBIT Great Hall)
LIT	Little Rock Clinton National
OKC	Oklahoma City Will Rogers
OMA	Omaha Eppley
SAN	San Diego
SLC	Salt Lake City

New York’s airports, Chicago, Atlanta and Miami are not in the pilot at launch.

How to get a pass

1. You must already have TSA PreCheck benefits (a Known Traveler Number from PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS or SENTRI).
2. Apply through TSA one to three days before your visit for a specific airport and date.
3. On the day, go to the PreCheck lane with acceptable ID and your approved pass.
4. Once through, you can go to the gates, shops and restaurants of the terminal the pass covers. You cannot board an aircraft.

What it means for you

• Meeting an arriving relative at the gate is possible again — useful for elderly parents, kids flying alone, or anyone anxious about a big airport.
• Long-layover lounge visits for a friend: some lounges admit guests with a member; check the lounge’s own rules before promising anything.
• Not a shortcut for non-members. If you don’t have PreCheck, check whether the airport runs its own visitor pass (SEA, PIT, DTW, MCI and others do) — those don’t need PreCheck but have their own limits.
• Expect blackout days. Airports can restrict passes during peak periods, so don’t build a plan around it for a holiday weekend.

Frequently asked

Do I need TSA PreCheck to get a Gateside pass?

Yes. The pilot is limited to travelers who already hold TSA PreCheck benefits (including through Global Entry or another Known Traveler Number). Non-members should look for the airport's own visitor-pass program instead, where one exists.

Can I board the plane with a Gateside pass?

No. It is not a boarding pass. It lets you through PreCheck screening into the secure area to accompany or meet a traveler, shop or eat.

Which LAX terminal does the Gateside pass cover?

Reports point to the Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) Great Hall. Confirm the current terminal and hours on LAX's site before you go, as pilot details change.