TSA Restricts Airport Gate Access Program to Limited Locations Amid Ongoing Evaluation

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has scaled back its Gateside by TSA PreCheck program, limiting it to just 13 airports despite earlier plans for a major nationwide expansion.

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Delta Air Lines passengers seen waiting to retrieve their luggage after flight cancelations at La Guardia Airport on July 18, 2026. (Erik McGregor/LightRocket)

The program, which allows approved TSA PreCheck members to pass through security without a boarding pass, enables them to accompany departing travelers to gates or greet arriving passengers at select locations.

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A Southwest Airlines employee assists a passenger during their check-in at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport on April 18, 2023 in Austin, Texas.  (Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

Initially introduced at 13 airports in September—including Los Angeles International Airport, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, and Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas—the program had been expected to expand to 314 airports.

“Gateside by TSA PreCheck is currently in the operational assessment phase at 13 airports across the nation. TSA is evaluating participation levels and assessing operational impacts. This assessment is proving that TSA’s security posture remains strong while delivering innovative benefits to PreCheck customers,” a TSA spokesperson said.

Cars move through the horseshoe for arrival pickups and departure drop-offs near Terminal 2 at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on March 24, 2026, in Los Angeles, California. (Luke Hales)

Under the program, eligible visitors must be TSA PreCheck members with a valid Known Traveler Number and submit an application at least one day—but no more than three days—before their planned visit. Approved visitors must present acceptable identification and undergo TSA PreCheck screening before entering the secure area.

The program aims to restore airport access privileges that were common before the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, when friends and family members could routinely accompany passengers to gates or meet them upon arrival.

Some airports, like Tulsa International, maintain independent visitor pass programs that don’t require TSA PreCheck membership.

TSA has not provided a timeline for expanding Gateside beyond its current 13-airport assessment phase.

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