TSA’s New Gateside Program Lets You Skip the Ticket at 13 Airports

For the first time in 25 years, you may be able to walk a loved one to their airport gate without buying a ticket. The TSA’s new Gateside program lets eligible travelers pass through security and wait at the gate, reversing a post-9/11 restriction that has kept non-ticketed visitors out of terminals since 2001. Discover whether you qualify and how the new perk actually works.

Why This Matters to You

Airport gate access without a ticket disappeared after the September 11 attacks, and an entire generation of travelers has never experienced walking a spouse, child, or grandchild all the way to the boarding door. For adults 50+, this change restores something many remember fondly: greeting a returning family member the moment they step off the jet bridge, or helping a less-mobile parent or grandchild navigate an unfamiliar airport. It also matters for safety — being present at the gate means you can confirm an elderly relative or young grandchild traveling alone boards safely and is met on arrival.

Key Facts & Context

The Gateside program launched at 13 airports, including Los Angeles International, Dallas-Fort Worth, Harry Reid International in Las Vegas, and Salt Lake City International, with the TSA planning to expand to more locations in the coming months. Eligibility currently requires TSA PreCheck membership or a Known Traveler Number from another trusted-traveler program.

• Available now at 13 major U.S. airports
• Requires TSA PreCheck or a Known Traveler Number
• Passes must be applied for 1–3 days in advance and are valid for one calendar day

The program is free, but approval isn’t automatic on arrival — travelers must apply online ahead of time and receive confirmation before heading to the airport. Reentries are allowed within the same calendar day, so a pass covers dropping someone off, stepping out for a coffee, and returning to see them board without reapplying.

What This Means for You

If you regularly fly with or meet family members, this policy shift is worth acting on now rather than waiting.

Check If You Already Qualify

If you have TSA PreCheck or belong to Global Entry, NEXUS, or another trusted-traveler program, you likely already have the Known Traveler Number needed to apply. Look up your number before your next trip so you’re ready to request gate access when you need it.

Apply Early, Not at the Airport

Approval takes one to three days, so this isn’t a same-day option. If you’re planning to greet a grandchild flying alone or help an aging parent through an unfamiliar terminal, submit your Gateside request as soon as travel dates are confirmed.

Confirm Your Airport Is Participating

The program is only live at 13 airports so far. Check the current list before you plan around it, and if your home airport isn’t included yet, watch for the promised expansion in the coming months.

Looking Forward

The TSA says more airports will gain Gateside access soon, which could make this a standard option nationwide within the next year or two. For now, adults 50+ who travel frequently with family should apply for PreCheck if they haven’t already, since it’s now the gateway to both faster security lines and gate access. For more on making travel easier after 50, see Seasoneds’ guide to cultural travel for adults 50 and older, browse the full Travel & Thrive section for more airport and trip-planning coverage, and check trip ideas with TripsNearby.