After 9/11, American airports underwent significant transformation regarding some previously banned travel practices after 25 years. This transportation security administration announced that it will allow people to go without tickets to pass through the security, and they would also be allowed to go to airport gates with their loved ones.
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Americans, who use TSA PreCheck and have a known traveller number are going to benefit first from the new regulations. The travellers already go through a pre approval process with the US government in order to expedite the security screening at US airport.
People with TSA PreCheck, who want to enter an airport gate without a ticket, can register online one to three day prior to their scheduled trips.
TSA posted on the its website, "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".
With this new advantage, TSA PreCheck members can request a free Gateside pass to travel through the TSA checkpoint at selected airports. The program allows participants to enjoy dining, and shopping at the airport, visit the terminal without boarding a trip, welcome incoming passengers, and accompany family members and loved ones to the gate.
Gateside by TSA PreCheck is available at 13 airports:
- Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT) in Little Rock, Arkansas
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)
- Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas
- Indianapolis International Airport (IND)
- John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) in Ohio
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
- Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) in Arizona
- Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
- San Diego International Airport (SAN)
- Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) in Kansas
- Will Rogers International Airport (OKC) in Oklahoma City
How security rules changed after 9/11?
They changed the entire security system by making it really strict. Complete baggage checks for explosives and the items that were once allowed banned such as small knives, razor blades, scissors, and box cutter because of the potential use as a weapon.
Initially all liquids, including beverages and hygiene, were prohibited, and for this reason, carrying full-sized toiletries, fragrances, and larger water bottles were also not allowed.
How to apply?
1. Go to the website: www.tsa.gov.
2. Click the Apply button.
3. Create or log in to your login.gov account to continue to the application portal.
4. You will be required to enter your personal information in the application portal.
5. Click on the submit button and send your request.
6. You need to return to your dashboard to view your approval status.
7. If approved, you are advised to bring your ID with you and head to the TSA Precheck lanes at the airport. There, you will have to login your dashboard and show your approval status to the TSA officer.
FAQ's
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How can you apply your Gateside pass?
Gateside pass will be available only for the people, who would be able to access their TSA PreCheck screening via TSA PreCheck membership, certain federal employees and other trusted traveller programs.
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When should you apply for the Gateside pass?
You are advised to apply for your Gateside pass at least one day prior to your visit to the airport and it should not be more than three days.
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Can you use your Gateside pass next day?
No, you won't be able to use it another day as passes are valid only for one calendar day, and the re-entry is allowed on that date.
