A TikTok video posted by @lisaremillard on September 8 details a new Transportation Security Administration pilot program that grants gate access to certain non-ticketed visitors for the first time in 25 years. The video had accumulated more than 56,000 likes and 9,000 shares at the time of publication.
How the Gateside by TSA PreCheck Program Works
The creator explained that the TSA has launched a pilot program called Gateside by TSA PreCheck. It allows approved visitors to meet arriving passengers at the gate, see departing travelers off, or spend time with someone facing a long layover — all without an airline ticket. Participation is limited, and the program is not yet available at every airport.
Eligibility and Application Process
According to the video, visitors must already hold a valid TSA PreCheck membership. Eligible members log into their PreCheck account and apply for Gateside access between one and three days before their intended visit. If approved, the visitor presents a government-issued ID at the TSA PreCheck lane along with the approval status displayed on their PreCheck dashboard, which serves in place of a boarding pass.
Cost, Children, and Participating Airports
The program is free for existing PreCheck holders. Children may also access the gate without a ticket when accompanied by a parent or guardian who has PreCheck and has received Gateside approval. As of the video’s publication, 13 airports nationwide are participating, with additional locations to be added in phases. The creator noted that availability may be limited during peak airline travel periods.
@lisaremillard #tsa #airport #airportsecurity The TSA just announced it is now allowing certain non ticketed people to have gateside access to say goodbye or welcome home a loved one. This video explains who will qualify for gateside access and which airports are participating.
♬ original sound – ?The News Girl ?
Historical Context: Gate Access Before and After 9/11
The TikToker provided historical context, stating that gate access for non-ticketed individuals was standard practice before the September 11 attacks. During that era, people could freely walk through terminals and concourses without showing identification or travel documents, security screenings were minimal, and travelers could carry full-sized liquid containers in carry-on luggage — a period before the TSA existed. She said Congress established the TSA in response to the attacks, eliminated gate access for anyone without a ticket, and implemented the security framework still in place today.
Comment Section Divided on the Change
Reaction in the comments was mixed. One commenter pushed back on the historical framing, writing:
“Am I the only one that’s OK with this? We used to be able to walk people to the gate.”
Another commenter referenced an international comparison, noting:
“Australia has had this for years. Not a big issue.”
The creator also mentioned that the Trump administration has discussed modernizing airport policy and referenced a return to what it describes as a “golden age of travel,” though she clarified that the TSA did not cite a specific reason for launching the Gateside pilot.
Verify Details Directly
Readers can confirm the program’s existence and current status on the official TSA website at tsa.gov. The details above reflect the account as shared on TikTok by @lisaremillard.
