New TSA PreCheck Perk: Access Airport Departure Gates Without a Ticket

Updated: September 7, 2026, 6:18pm CDT

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Table of Contents

What Is Gateside by TSA PreCheck?
How To Get Gateside by TSA PreCheck Access
Who Can Use Gateside by TSA PreCheck?
Final Thoughts

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Security is always the top priority in the world of airlines and airports.

The events of September 11, 2001, led to even tighter airport security. Until now, only passengers holding valid boarding passes for the day of travel have had access to post-security areas of the airport.

Thanks to Gateside by TSA PreCheck, a new TSA initiative, 13 U.S. airports have relaxed those strict rules.

Let’s take a look at the details of this major development.

What Is Gateside by TSA PreCheck?

In a nutshell, Gateside by TSA PreCheck is a new complimentary benefit of TSA PreCheck membership that grants members access to the secure post-security (airside) part of airport terminals even when they’re not catching a flight.

As per the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)’s website, the new gateside access is designed specifically for those wishing to greet loved ones the second they step off the plane — or even just spend time with someone during a long layover.

Hot Tip:

Starting at $78 for a 5-year membership, TSA PreCheck is a worthwhile investment for frequent flyers. However, you can also enjoy TSA PreCheck and Global Entry at no cost as a benefit of certain credit cards that cover the application fee.

Interestingly, there’s nothing to suggest that Gateside by TSA PreCheck can’t be used by people who won’t be meeting anyone. For example, an AvGeek who wants to spend an afternoon getting pictures should also be eligible.

For now, Gatseside TSA PreCheck is in its pilot phase and is only available in the following 13 airports, which include small regional airports and important international gateways:

Little Rock (LIT), Arkansas
Columbus (CMH), Ohio
Dallas Fort Worth (DFW)
Detroit (DTW)
Indianapolis (IND)
Las Vegas (LAS)
Los Angeles (LAX)
Mesa (AZA), Arizona
Oklahoma City (OKC)
Omaha (OMA), Nebraska
Salt Lake City (SLC)
San Diego (SAN)
Wichita (ICT), Kansas

More airports will be added to this list in the coming months.

How To Get Gateside by TSA PreCheck Access

The process is simple. Follow this link, and then log in to your login.gov account to access the application portal.

Applications must be complete no earlier than 3 days and no later than 1 day before the requested visit date. Application status is displayed on the login.gov dashboard.

Arrival at Los Angeles LAX — Friends and family can now spend time with loved ones post-security at LAX and 12 more airports. Image Credit: Daniel Ross

Who Can Use Gateside by TSA PreCheck?

This cool new perk is only available to people who already have TSA PreCheck memberships or Known Traveler Numbers.

Final Thoughts

Gateside by TSA PreCheck is an exciting development in airport security. Hopefully, the pilot is deemed a success, and it’s rolled out country-wide soon. I, for one, will be making the most of my PreCheck for some AvGeek content when I’m bak in the U.S.