Imagine walking into an airport just to have dinner or meet a friend. In the United States, this is now becoming a reality again. The TSA has launched a pilot program called Gateside. It allows approved visitors to pass through security without a plane ticket. This is the first major change in airport access since the September 11 attacks.
The Gateside program is currently available at 13 airports across the country. These include major hubs like Los Angeles and Dallas-Fort Worth. TSA PreCheck members must apply online one to three days in advance. If approved, they receive a free pass that is valid for one day. Visitors can shop, dine, and greet loved ones right at the gate.
Before 2001, friends and relatives routinely accompanied passengers to departure gates. That tradition largely disappeared when security rules were tightened after the attacks. The new program does not restore unrestricted access to airport terminals. Only carefully screened individuals who are already trusted travelers may enter. However, it represents a significant shift in how airports operate.
The TSA hopes to expand the program to all 430 US airports by year's end. This change could transform airports into social and dining destinations. If airports attracted more visitors, restaurants and shops would benefit greatly. Some people believe this would improve the overall airport experience for everyone. Others worry that more visitors could create longer security lines.
