Sachin Walls
In the past, it was possible to accompany a friend or family member to an airport gate without a ticket, but security measures have been tightened since 2001 to prevent potential terrorism threats. However, some airports have recently started allowing unticketed visitors through security again, provided they obtain a visitor pass. These passes are intended to allow guests to access the airport's services and amenities, such as shops and restaurants, and to meet and greet friends or family at the gate. To obtain a pass, visitors typically need to apply online in advance and provide a valid government-issued ID.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Airport visitor pass programs | Experience MCO Visitor Pass, DTW Destination Pass, FNT Visitor Pass, MSY Guest Pass, SAT Pass, PHL Wingmate Pass, LAN Visitor Pass, PSP Stay & Play Pass, SEA Visitor Pass, TPA All Access, MyPITPass |
| Application process | Online, in-person, or at check-in desks; usually up to seven days in advance |
| Requirements | TSA-approved photo ID, government-issued ID, or email verification |
| Restrictions | No hand-carried luggage, no access to certain terminals, specific timeframes, no expedited programs |
| Purpose | Meet and mingle at the terminal gates, greet loved ones, access airport services and amenities |
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What You'll Learn
Visitor pass programs
Several airports have introduced visitor pass programs that allow unticketed individuals to access certain areas of the airport. These programs were initially introduced to allow non-passengers to accompany their loved ones to the gate for a final goodbye or to greet them upon arrival. However, these passes also enable visitors to enjoy the services and amenities available in the terminal, such as shopping and dining.
- Orlando International Airport (MCO): The Experience MCO Visitor Pass program allows unticketed guests to obtain a pass to go through TSA security checkpoints and access Terminal C. Visitors can spend time with their travelling friends or family or enjoy the airport's offerings. The pass is valid between 10 am and 4 pm, and visitors must leave by 8 pm. Applications must be submitted online within seven days of the visit, and approved passes will be notified via email.
- Bishop International Airport, Flint, Michigan (FNT): The FNT Visitor Pass is available Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 6 pm. Registration is required for all visitors, including minors, who must be accompanied by an adult.
- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport: The DTW Destination Pass program allows non-ticketed visitors to enter the airport's McNamara and Evans terminals. Passes can be obtained on the same day by applying at the kiosks in the departures area. The pass is valid from 5 am to 9 pm.
- Tulsa International Airport (TUL): The TUL Visitor Pass allows non-ticketed individuals to enter the terminal. Applications can be submitted online for the same day or up to seven days in advance.
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): The PHL Wingmate Pass program allows up to 100 non-ticketed visitors per day to accompany their loved ones to the gate or greet them upon arrival. Applications must be submitted up to seven days in advance, and visitors must choose a terminal and a security time slot. The visit is limited to six hours.
- Capital Region International Airport, Lansing, Michigan (LAN): The LAN Visitor Pass Program welcomes up to 25 non-ticketed visitors per day. After obtaining a pass, visitors can enter the post-security areas of the terminal for up to four hours between 8 am and 5 pm.
- John Wayne Airport, Orange County, California (SNA): The OC AirPASS program allows non-ticketed visitors to enter Terminals A, B, or C. There is no advance registration required. Prospective pass holders can simply check in at the Information Booth with a valid government-issued ID. The pass is valid only on the day of issue.
- Ontario International Airport, California (ONT): The ONT+ Visitor Pass Program allows non-traveling individuals to access the post-security side of passenger terminals 2 and 4. Applications can be made for the same day or up to seven days in advance. Passes are subject to TSA approval and are granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA): The SEA Visitor Pass Program was the first of its kind on the West Coast, introduced in 2018. It allows non-flying visitors to enter the airport and greet their friends and family. The pass is intended for personal use only. Applications can be made for the same day or up to seven days in advance, and the program is limited to 300 visitors per day.
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Security screening regulations
- TSA Security Screening: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States is responsible for conducting security screenings at airports. These screenings are designed to identify prohibited items and potential security threats. Individuals are typically required to present a boarding pass and undergo screening procedures such as metal detectors, X-ray machines, and baggage inspections.!
- Security Measures: Airports employ various security measures to enhance aviation security. This includes the use of advanced technology, such as
- Prohibited Items: TSA has strict regulations regarding prohibited items that cannot be brought through security checkpoints. These include items such as sharp objects, firearms, and liquids above a certain volume. It is important for passengers and visitors to familiarize themselves with the list of prohibited items to ensure compliance.!
- Special Accommodations: Accommodations are made for individuals who require special assistance or have unique circumstances. For example, those with disabilities or unaccompanied minors may be allowed to be accompanied by an unticketed person to their gate. Additionally, TSA offers a Secure Flight program that facilitates the travel of trusted travelers while enhancing security.!
- International Travel: When
By understanding and complying with security screening regulations, both ticketed passengers and authorized unticketed visitors can contribute to maintaining a safe airport environment.
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Meeting friends and family at the gate
Meeting friends and family at the airport gate used to be a common practice during the pre-9/11 era of air travel. However, tighter security restrictions implemented after the 9/11 attacks made this difficult, and goodbyes or welcomes were often rushed at the curb or in the security checkpoint line. In recent years, some airports in the US have started allowing non-ticketed visitors to access areas beyond the security checkpoint through various visitor pass programs. These programs allow unticketed individuals to meet and mingle at the terminal gates, see their friends and family off, or greet them upon arrival.
One of the airports offering this service is Orlando International Airport (MCO) in Florida. MCO introduced the Experience MCO Visitor Pass program, which allows non-ticketed visitors to access Terminal C. To obtain this pass, individuals must fill out an online application within seven days of their visit. Visitors are required to have their pass accessible digitally and cannot bring any hand-carried luggage. It is important to note that this pass cannot be used to meet individuals arriving from international destinations, as they need to clear customs first.
Another airport offering a similar program is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). The SEA Visitor Pass program provides 200 daily visitor passes, allowing non-ticketed individuals to access the airport from 8 am to 10 pm. Visitors must enter through Checkpoint 3 between 5 am and 9 pm and can re-enter and exit as often as needed, but they must go through security each time.
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) also has the DTW Destination Pass program, which can be applied for in person at kiosks in the McNamara and Evans terminals. The pass is valid from 5 am to 9 pm on the day of application. Additionally, Tampa International Airport (TPA) offers the TPA All Access program, which allows non-flying guests with a visitor pass to access airside bars, restaurants, and passenger waiting areas in the terminal. This program operates daily from 8 am to 8 pm.
These visitor pass programs allow non-ticketed individuals to access specific areas of the airport beyond security checkpoints. However, it is important to note that these passes are separate from accompanying someone who requires special assistance, as the latter often requires appropriate paperwork. The availability and specifics of each program may vary, so it is recommended to check the requirements and application processes for each airport's visitor pass program.
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Airside access
These visitor passes are typically intended for individuals who want to accompany a friend or family member to their gate or greet them upon arrival. Some airports also market these programs as a way for non-travellers to access and enjoy the various services and amenities available in the terminal, such as restaurants, bars, shops, and lounges.
To obtain a visitor pass, individuals usually need to apply in advance, typically up to seven days ahead of their visit. Some airports, like Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, allow for same-day applications. Applications can be made online or in person at kiosks or check-in desks, and visitors may be required to provide a valid reason for their visit. Upon arrival at the airport, they must show their pass, valid ID, and go through regular security screening procedures. Visitor passes are usually limited to a specific timeframe, such as from 8 am to 8 pm, and visitors must adhere to the same security regulations as ticketed passengers.
Examples of airports with visitor pass programs include Orlando International Airport (MCO), San Antonio International Airport, Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), and Bishop International Airport in Flint, Michigan.
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Pre-9/11 airport security
Back then, anyone could enter the airport terminal, and it was common to see large crowds gathering at the gate to greet arriving passengers or bid farewell to departing loved ones. Security screening was a relatively benign exercise, with passengers simply walking through metal detectors and placing their carry-on bags on an X-ray machine. There was no need to remove shoes, belts, or jackets, and liquids, gels, and aerosols were permitted in any quantity.
The Computer-Assisted Passenger Prescreening System (CAPPS), implemented in the late 1990s, was one of the key security measures in place. CAPPS flagged six of the 19 terrorists involved in the 9/11 attacks, but it also flagged an additional 65,000 innocent passengers, causing concerns about privacy and profiling. On the day of the attacks, several of the hijackers were selected for additional scrutiny by CAPPS, but the lack of stringent follow-up procedures allowed them to proceed without hindrance.
In the aftermath of 9/11, airport security underwent a significant transformation. The creation of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) centralized security functions, increasing the number of security agents and improving their training. Passenger pre-checks became standard, and 100% of checked baggage was screened for explosives. Sharp items were banned from carry-on luggage, and vehicles were restricted to active loading and unloading areas only.
While the enhanced security measures have been successful in preventing further attacks, they have also led to longer wait times and increased scrutiny of passengers' identities and documentation. The days of easily accessing the airside of an airport and accompanying loved ones to the gate are now largely a thing of the past, except in specific circumstances or through special visitor pass programs implemented by some airports.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, some airports have introduced "Visitor Pass" programs, which allow unticketed people to enter the airport.
Visitor passes can be applied for online or in person. Applications are typically completed ahead of your visit, usually up to seven days in advance.
Visitors will need to provide a government-issued ID, such as a driver's license or passport, and go through the regular Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening procedures.
Visitor passes allow unticketed guests to spend more time with friends and family before they depart or greet them when they land. They can also access airport services and amenities, such as bars, restaurants, and retail stores.
As of January 2020, there are at least 17 airports that offer visitor passes, including Orlando International Airport (MCO), Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).
