How the 9/11 terrorist attacks changed airport security forever
Modern day air travel comes with a well-established preflight routine. The way aviation security looks now can be largely traced back to 9/11.
Twenty-five years after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks sparked a radical change in airport security protocols, a new program is bringing back meeting loved ones at the gate.
The Transportation Security Administration has launched Gateside by TSA PreCheck, an initiative allowing some people without a plane ticket to pass through airport security.
The program is only available at some airports around the country for those with TSA PreCheck or other trusted traveler programs.
“This new program makes it easier to return to the gate for welcomes and send-offs, meet friends during a layover, and enjoy dining and shopping along the way, bringing back the moments that once defined air travel,” TSA said on its website.
While Gateside by TSA PreCheck is organized through the federal agency, several individual airports have existing programs allowing visitors past security checkpoints. For instance, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport has offered a visitor pass program since 2018, while Detroit Metro Airport first launched a similar program in 2019.
Here’s what to know about Gateside by TSA PreCheck.
How to apply for new TSA program to pass airport security
Those interested in Gateside by TSA PreCheck can apply on TSA’s website.
On TSA’s Visitor Pass portal, users can sign in or create a new account to submit an application. The portal’s dashboard will indicate the application status, including if it has been approved.
If approved, non-flyers using Gateside by TSA PreCheck can head to the TSA PreCheck lanes at airport security and show valid ID.
Gateside by TSA PreCheck is free, and TSA recommends applying one to three days before the anticipated visit. Children are also eligible for the program, but they must be entered on their parent or guardian’s reservation.
Who can use Gateside by TSA PreCheck?
Gateside by TSA PreCheck is only available at some airports for those who have TSA PreCheck or Known Traveler Numbers (KTNs).
TSA PreCheck is an expedited screening program for travelers who have been vetted prior to arriving at the airport. It is available to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents, who can begin the application process and see the full requirements on TSA’s website. It costs $85 and lasts five years.
Travelers may also be eligible for Gateside by TSA PreCheck if they have a KTN under screening programs like Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI and FAST.
Which airports have Gateside by TSA PreCheck?
The program is currently only available at 13 airports around the country, but TSA said it expects to roll it out to more locations in the coming months.
Here’s where Gateside by TSA PreCheck is currently available:
- Mesa Gateway Airport in Arizona (AZA)
- John Glenn Columbus International Airport in Ohio (CMH)
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport in Texas (DFW)
- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport in Michigan (DTW)
- Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport in Kansas (ICT)
- Indianapolis International Airport in Indiana (IND)
- Harry Reid International Airport in Nevada (LAS)
- Los Angeles International Airport in California (LAX)
- Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport in Arkansas (LIT)
- Will Rogers International Airport in Oklahoma (OKC)
- Eppley Airfield in Nebraska (OMA)
- San Diego International Airport in California (SAN)
- Salt Lake City International Airport in Utah (SLC)
Melina Khan is a national trending reporter for USA TODAY. Keep up with her on X @melinakh and Instagram @bymelinakhan.