For the first time in more than two decades, TSA PreCheck members visiting the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport in Little Rock will be able to join passengers at their gates to say goodbye or greet them upon arrival. The initiative, part of a new Transportation Security Administration (TSA) pilot program called Gateside, restores a privilege halted after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
Under the program, TSA PreCheck members can apply for passes to access airport gates even if they are not flying. Passholders can also use airport facilities, such as restaurants and shops, beyond security checkpoints. Visitors must request the passes online one to three days prior to their visit by entering their Known Traveler Number and selecting a participating airport. Once approved, visitors must present a REAL ID or another TSA-accepted form of identification, such as a passport, at the TSA checkpoint before entering the secured area.
All visitors will be subject to the same screening procedures as ticketed passengers, TSA said in a statement. However, TSA PreCheck members benefit from expedited security screening by typically keeping electronics, belts, and shoes on during the process. The service requires a $78 application fee for new members, which provides benefits for five years.
"The Gateside program aims to make the airport experience more seamless, convenient, and family-friendly while maintaining security," the TSA said.
Thirteen airports nationwide are participating in the program. In addition to the Little Rock airport, locations include Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, Detroit Metropolitan Airport, Salt Lake City International Airport, and Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City, among others.
The last time most U.S. airports allowed visitors past security without tickets was prior to 2001. Following the attacks on Sept. 11 of that year, security policies rapidly shifted to restrict access to secure areas to reduce potential threats.