Family Members At Airports: Who's Allowed Inside?

Family members are allowed in airports, but only up to a certain point. They can accompany you to the security checkpoint, but they will not be allowed to go beyond that without a boarding pass. Some airports have introduced programs that allow non-travellers to pass through security and spend time in the airport post-security. However, they typically have to apply in advance, show ID, and go through the same security procedures as other passengers.

Family members can escort you to the gate in some airports

However, this does come with some conditions. Visitors must show ID, typically apply in advance, and go through the same Transportation Security Administration screening procedures as other ticketed passengers. Expedited programs like TSA PreCheck are not usually honoured.

Some airports that offer this service include:

• Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
• Orlando International Airport (MCO)
• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
• Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
• Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW)
• John Wayne Airport (SNA)
• Tulsa International Airport (TUL)

If you are worried about anxiety or panic attacks, it is worth noting that some airports can provide an escort from security to the gate. Alternatively, your family members may be able to purchase a fully-refundable flight ticket that leaves from the same terminal, thus allowing them to accompany you through security.

Family members can meet you at the gate when you land in some airports

For example, in 2017, Pittsburgh International Airport became the first US airport to welcome non-ticketed visitors post-security. However, this program has since been suspended. Other airports that have offered this kind of program include Philadelphia International Airport, Orlando International Airport, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, Detroit Metropolitan Airport, John Wayne Airport, and Tulsa International Airport.

To obtain a pass, non-travellers must typically apply online in advance and go through the same Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening procedures as other ticketed passengers. Passes are usually free, but there may be a limit on the number of visitors allowed per day.

Family members can access airport lounges with certain credit cards

Airport lounges are a great way to relax and unwind before a flight, offering free food and drinks, WiFi, and even showers. While some lounges can be accessed by flying first or business class, purchasing a day pass, or having airline status, one of the most common ways to gain entry is by having a specific credit card.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X card is a great option for families, as it offers flexible rewards and benefits such as an annual Capital One travel credit, a fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership, and Priority Pass Select membership. Cardholders can enter Capital One and Plaza Premium airport lounges, as well as Priority Pass lounges, with up to two guests. Additionally, cardholders can add up to four authorized users for free, and each authorized user gets their own Priority Pass Select membership, allowing them to bring guests of their own. The annual fee for this card is $395, but the benefits can easily offset this cost.

Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® card provides access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide, including Priority Pass lounges and Chase Sapphire lounges. Cardholders can bring up to two guests into the lounges with them. However, there is a $550 annual fee for this card, and authorized users cost an additional $75. Authorized users do receive their own Priority Pass Select membership and can bring up to two guests.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Platinum Card® from American Express offers a broad range of benefits, including annual travel credits and access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection. This includes entry to American Express Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs when flying with Delta, and Priority Pass lounges. Cardholders can bring guests into Priority Pass lounges, but a per-guest fee applies for Centurion Lounges unless the cardholder spends $75,000 or more per year. There is a high annual fee for this card, and lounge access for guests is limited.

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®

The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® is ideal for frequent American Airlines flyers, as it offers full membership access to Admirals Club lounges. Cardholders can bring up to two guests or immediate family members traveling with them for free. A same-day boarding pass for an American Airlines flight is required. This card has a $595 annual fee.

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card offers benefits such as Delta Sky Club membership, which includes access to Delta Sky Clubs and American Express Centurion Lounges when flying with Delta. The card also comes with four guest passes to Delta Sky Clubs annually. There is a $650 annual fee for this card, and Sky Club visits are limited to 15 per year starting in February 2025. To earn unlimited visits, cardholders need to spend $75,000 per calendar year.

Other Options

Other credit cards that offer airport lounge access include the United Club℠ Infinite Card, the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, and the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite Credit Card. Additionally, services like LoungeBuddy and The Club can help connect you with lounges that offer day passes if your preferred lounge is full or you need space for more guests.

Family members can accompany a parent or guardian with TSA PreCheck™

Children under 12 can access TSA PreCheck lanes when accompanied by a parent or guardian with TSA PreCheck, without restriction. Children aged 13-17 may also access the TSA PreCheck lane, but they need to have the TSA PreCheck logo on their boarding pass. They must be on the same airline reservation as a TSA PreCheck-eligible parent or guardian to be eligible to receive the TSA PreCheck logo.

If children aged 13-17 are not on the same reservation as a parent or guardian with TSA PreCheck, they will need their own TSA PreCheck membership to access the lanes. This costs $78 as of May 2023.

It is important to note that no individual is guaranteed expedited screening as the TSA uses unpredictable security measures. All travellers will be screened.

Family members can help with checking in car seats and strollers

Family members can be a great help when checking in car seats and strollers at the airport. Here are some tips to make the process smoother:

Before You Get to the Airport

Firstly, it is important to check your airline's regulations for checked items and carry-ons. Each airline has its own rules and size regulations, so ensure your car seat and stroller comply with these to avoid any last-minute hassles. If you have multiple car seats or strollers, opt for the most compact ones that meet your travel needs and are suitable for your child's age.

Secondly, remove any unnecessary attachments, such as toys and securing straps, to make navigating the airport and storing items easier. This will also reduce the risk of damaging or losing items.

At the Airport

When you arrive at the airport, go straight to the check-in counter or gate to obtain your luggage tag for your car seat and stroller. Even if your boarding time is not imminent, attach the tag to your items immediately. This ensures that you don't hold up the boarding process and avoids any potential issues with locating tags.

Consider investing in a car seat travel bag or another durable, waterproof option to protect your items from scratches or soiling during transit. Car seat travel bags are particularly useful as they can be wheeled or carried through the airport.

During Boarding

If you intend to use your car seat on the plane, ensure it is approved by the FAA and has the required sticker. Car seats in the US typically have a sticker with red lettering indicating aircraft approval. The sticker should read: "This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft." It is important to familiarise yourself with the location of this sticker, the dimensions of your car seat, and the manufacturer's instructions for installation before boarding.

If you are flying with an infant seat, you usually only need to bring the infant carrier onto the plane, as most infant seat bases are not approved for aircraft use. For convertible car seats, review the instructions for installation on airplanes, as you may need to position the seat more upright than you would in a car.

After Landing

Research and contact the airline beforehand to understand how you will collect any checked items upon arrival. This will save you the hassle of hunting them down with a potentially tired child. Taking photos of your items before the flight is also a good idea, in case they are returned damaged.

Lastly, have a backup plan in case your car seat or stroller gets damaged or lost. Research where and how you can obtain replacements at your destination, as well as the associated costs, so you can be prepared for any eventuality.

By following these tips, family members can play a crucial role in making the process of checking in car seats and strollers at the airport more manageable and stress-free.

Frequently asked questions