TSA has put the Gateside expansion on hold, and only the 13 airports the program launched with remain. The application had listed more than 300 airports in early October, but it now offers passes only at the 13. TSA's Gateside page, read October 16, 2026, lists those same 13 airports.
Gateside by TSA PreCheck lets PreCheck members go past airport security without a boarding pass, to meet someone at the gate, see them off, or eat and shop in the terminal. It's free. Here's what changed, which airports remain and how to apply.
What Changed
TSA launched Gateside at 13 airports on September 9 and 10, 2026, with a series of local announcements. Our launch coverage has that list and the background on how the program started.
In early October, the airport menu inside the application listed more than 300 airports. That expansion has since been reversed. The Norfolk airport authority says TSA told it the program is "on hold indefinitely, except for the original pilot airports."
The 13 airports are Dallas Fort Worth, Detroit, Omaha, Las Vegas, Indianapolis, Columbus, Los Angeles, Little Rock, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway, Salt Lake City, San Diego, Wichita and Oklahoma City.
What TSA's Public Page Says
As of October 16, 2026, TSA's Gateside page lists the same 13 airports, from Mesa Gateway in Arizona to Salt Lake City, and says the program "will roll out to more airports across the country in the coming months." One answer in the page's own FAQ refers to 14 airports in the initial phase, while the rest of the page says 13.
How to Apply
Start at TSA's Gateside page and click Apply. You'll sign in to Login.gov, or create an account, and land in the application portal. Pick your airport from the menu, which now shows the 13, enter your details and Known Traveler Number, and submit. Then check your dashboard for the approval before you head to the airport.
Timing matters. TSA says you must apply at least one day before your visit and no more than three days in advance.
The Rules on TSA's Page
These come from TSA's Gateside page and its FAQ as of October 5, 2026:
- It's free. There's no charge for a Gateside pass.
- Who can apply: TSA PreCheck members, certain federal employees and members of other trusted traveler programs, using a Known Traveler Number.
- Children can come but must be on a parent's or guardian's reservation.
- Use the TSA PreCheck lane. TSA says visitors may not use TSA PreCheck Touchless ID lanes.
- Bring an acceptable ID, and be ready to show your approved status on your phone. TSA says screenshots and printouts won't be accepted.
- One calendar day. A pass is valid for one day, and re-entry is allowed on that date.
- Same screening. Visitors go through the same screening requirements and limits as ticketed passengers.
- Peak times. TSA says availability may be limited during peak times.
What This Means for You
If you have PreCheck and your airport is one of the 13, you can apply for a pass to walk a parent to the gate or meet a friend on a layover. If it isn't, check that airport's own policy for gate access, since several airports run their own programs.
If you don't have PreCheck yet, Gateside adds one more use for it. Several travel cards reimburse the application fee, and our TSA PreCheck guide covers how to enroll and which cards pay for it.
The Bottom Line
Only the 13 launch airports are issuing Gateside passes now. Apply one to three days ahead, choose your airport from the menu, and check your approval before you leave home. For every trusted traveler program in one place, see our TSA PreCheck and Global Entry hub.
Updated October 16, 2026: expansion on hold.
