This Airport Rule That Resulted From 9/11 Has Been Changed (And Travelers Have Mixed Feelings)
The September 11 attacks in 2001 caused some major changes to the airport security setup, including removing the option for non-travelers to go to the gate to meet or drop off a loved one. But that is coming back — to an extent. In 2026, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has unveiled the Gateside by TSA PreCheck program, a free service that allows non-passengers with TSA PreCheck past security to accompany travelers to the airport's gate areas.
There are some caveats. The program is only available for those with a Known Traveler Number (KTN), which you typically get by going through the TSA PreCheck vetting process. Even with a KTN, you can't just walk up to security and get through. You have to set up an account and apply for a day pass online. The application window is open one to three days before you want to enter, and once approved, the passes are good for one calendar day. Children can be added to an adult's gateside application. Once approved, you still must go through TSA security and comply with all of the standard rules. In fact, travelers will also need a Real ID or passport to get through.
As for why people might want to do this, the TSA website states, "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." If those reasons sound good to you, it might be another reason to pay for TSA PreCheck.
Online reactions to Gateside by TSA PreCheck have been mixed
The Gateside by TSA PreCheck program is currently only available at 13 select airports, though there are plans to expand it to more. Some of the major airports currently in the program are Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
The news has been getting some mixed reactions online. Some are excited about the change. "I remember when I was 18-20 years old, I would take my grandpa all the way to the gate for airport dropoffs. Can't wait to try this again," one person writes on X. Another user says, "I want this for some of the restaurants that are in airports." There are indeed some airports with delicious eateries, like Denver International's best restaurants, so we could see that appeal.
On the flip side, others aren't thrilled. One person on X quips, "Finally I can pay $28 for a beer without the inconvenience of traveling." Others think that it will make things at airports worse. "Big mistake — added crowds to the TSA lines and in the gate area, as if they're not crowded enough," one person on Instagram comments. Part of the fine print for the program includes potentially limited access during peak hours, so it seems like TSA has anticipated this as a possible problem. We may just have to wait and see how it impacts airport travelers over time.