Sachin Walls
If you want to accompany someone through airport security, you will need to obtain a gate pass, also known as an escort pass. These passes are issued by the airline, not the airport, and allow non-ticketed individuals to accompany ticketed passengers past security to the gate. They are typically reserved for accompanying minors, assisting elderly or disabled passengers, or accompanying military family members. To obtain a gate pass, visit the ticket counter of the airline and present a valid government-issued photo ID. Some airports and airlines may also require you to fill out an airline authorization form or security pass request, explaining your situation. It is important to plan ahead as escort passes may not always be available at the last minute.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who can get an escort pass? | Family members or friends of unaccompanied minors, elderly or disabled passengers, and military families. |
| What does an escort pass allow? | Access through airport security screening to accompany someone to the departure gate or meet them at the arrival gate. |
| Where to get an escort pass? | Visit the ticket counter of the airline your loved one is flying with and request an air carrier authorization form or security pass. Some airports and airlines may also have online registration or application processes. |
| When to get an escort pass? | Arrive at least 90 minutes early to obtain an escort pass. For wheelchair assistance, call the airline at least 48 hours in advance. |
| Any fees or requirements? | Airlines generally issue escort passes free of charge, but some may charge a fee. A valid government-issued photo ID is typically required. |
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What You'll Learn
- Escort passes are available for those assisting unaccompanied minors
- Gate passes are provided for those accompanying military personnel
- Passes are available for those escorting people with disabilities
- Passes are issued for non-travellers to explore the airport
- You can request a pass at the airline ticket counter
Escort passes are available for those assisting unaccompanied minors
Escort passes, also known as gate passes, are available for those assisting unaccompanied minors. These passes allow someone without a ticket to enter the post-security gate area and accompany a minor to the departure gate. While the specific procedures may vary across airlines and airports, here is a general overview of the process:
Obtaining an Escort Pass
Firstly, escort passes are typically obtained at the airline's ticket counter or check-in desk. Present a valid government-issued photo ID and request an escort or security pass. You will need to explain your situation, and the agent will complete an airline authorization form. The pass will be printed once your request is approved. Some airlines, such as Delta, may charge a fee for this service. It is important to plan ahead, as escort passes may not always be available at the last minute.
Accompanying the Minor
With the escort pass, you can accompany the unaccompanied minor through airport security and to the departure gate. It is important to comply with the same regulations as a regular passenger when going through security. At the gate, inform the gate agent about the unaccompanied minor travelling on the flight. The minor will be boarded early to meet the crew and familiarize themselves with the safety features. Stay at the airport until the flight is airborne, and the airline staff will notify you when it is safe to leave.
Additional Considerations
Escort passes are not always issued for international flights due to customs and immigration regulations. If the minor has a connecting flight, some airlines provide lounges or secure locations supervised by staff. It is recommended to stay connected with the minor's journey through flight notifications. Additionally, remember that the adult picking up the child at the destination airport might need to provide identification and arrive early to receive the minor.
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Gate passes are provided for those accompanying military personnel
Gate passes, also known as escort passes, are available at many airports for individuals who need to accompany others through airport security. These passes are typically reserved for those accompanying minors, special needs persons, or military family members. To obtain a gate pass, visit the ticket counter of the airline your loved one is flying with and present a valid government-issued photo ID. Then, request an air carrier authorization form or security pass, explaining your situation.
It's important to note that policies and availability of gate passes may vary across airlines and airports. Some airports have specific programs that offer gate passes, such as Philadelphia Airport's Wingmate program and San Antonio International Airport's SAT Pass. Additionally, the issuance of gate passes may depend on security conditions at the time of travel. Therefore, it is recommended to plan ahead and check with the specific airport or airline in advance.
When accompanying military personnel, family members may receive passes to enter the secure area of the airport, including the departure and arrival gates. This allows them to provide support and assistance to their loved ones during travel. It is important to comply with any additional security measures or requirements that may be in place for obtaining a gate pass in these circumstances.
In some cases, gate passes may also be provided to individuals assisting with wheelchair services or other special assistance needs. This can include accompanying elderly relatives or those with disabilities through airport security and to their gate. Again, it is important to contact the airline in advance to arrange for any necessary assistance and to increase the likelihood of obtaining a gate pass.
Overall, gate passes provide a valuable option for those accompanying military personnel or others who require assistance during their travel through airport security. By allowing individuals without tickets to access the secure gate area, gate passes help ensure a safe and supportive travel experience for those who need it.
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Passes are available for those escorting people with disabilities
If you are escorting someone with a disability, you can obtain a pass to accompany them through airport security. These passes are typically known as escort passes, gate passes, or security passes. They allow non-ticketed individuals to pass through security and accompany their loved ones to the departure gate. This is especially useful for those assisting minors, elderly individuals, or people with disabilities.
To obtain an escort pass, you will need to visit the ticket counter of the airline your travelling companion is flying with. Present a valid government-issued photo ID and request an escort or security pass. The airline agent will then complete an airline authorization form, and your pass will be printed once approved. It is important to note that policies vary by airline and airport, so it is recommended to check in advance and plan accordingly. Some airlines may charge a fee for issuing an escort pass, while others provide it free of charge.
When requesting an escort pass, be sure to mention if your travelling companion is elderly, has a disability, or is a minor. This information will help the airline understand your specific needs and provide the necessary assistance. Additionally, if your companion requires wheelchair assistance, it is advisable to arrange this with the airline at least 48 hours in advance. This ensures that the necessary accommodations are in place for a smooth travel experience.
Escort passes are generally not issued for meeting passengers on incoming international flights in the US due to customs and immigration regulations. However, they can be useful for domestic flights or non-international arrivals. It is important to note that even with an escort pass, you will still need to comply with the same security regulations as a regular passenger.
Some airports also offer visitor pass programs that allow non-ticketed guests to pass through security and access certain areas of the airport. These programs may have specific requirements, such as registering online or applying in advance. It is worth checking with the specific airport to understand their policies and procedures for issuing visitor passes. Overall, obtaining an escort pass can be a helpful option for those accompanying individuals with disabilities, ensuring a more comfortable and assisted travel experience.
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Passes are issued for non-travellers to explore the airport
Many airports allow non-travellers to enter the airport and explore the terminal. However, the process for doing so varies across airports. Here are some examples:
Philadelphia Airport
Philadelphia Airport's Wingmate program allows non-ticketed guests to pass through security, meet their loved ones at the gate, explore the terminal, or enjoy the airport's amenities. To participate, register online and follow the provided instructions.
San Antonio International Airport
San Antonio International Airport launched the SAT Pass in February 2025. Non-ticketed guests can apply up to seven days in advance (or the same day if space allows) and, once approved, may remain airside until 9 pm to dine, shop, or see friends and family off.
Seattle Airport
Seattle Airport's Visitor Pass allows non-travellers to accompany loved ones or explore the concourses. To obtain a pass, you must first apply online and then follow the instructions provided via email.
Detroit Metropolitan Airport
Detroit Metropolitan Airport's DTW Destination Pass allows visitors to access the gates at both of the airport's terminals, McNamara and Evans. The pass can be applied for and used on the same day between 5 am and 9 pm. To obtain the pass, scan a U.S. government-issued ID at the kiosk, and once cleared, show the resulting pass to the TSA.
John Wayne Airport
John Wayne Airport's OC AirPASS allows non-travellers to access the airport. Visitors can apply in person on the same day they wish to use it by presenting a valid government-issued ID at the Information Booth in any of the terminals between 6 am and 7 pm. Once approved, visitors go through the standard TSA security screening with their pass. Visitors are only allowed one personal item, and minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Orlando International Airport
Orlando International Airport's ExperienceMCO Visitor Pass Program allows non-ticketed visitors to explore Terminal C, which features 23 eateries and numerous shops. Visitors can apply for the program up to a week in advance on the airport website. Passes must be saved digitally, as printed versions are not allowed, and visitors cannot bring any hand-carried luggage. Visitors may enter between 10 am and 4 pm and must leave by 8 pm.
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You can request a pass at the airline ticket counter
If you want to accompany someone through airport security, you can request a pass at the airline ticket counter. This is also known as an escort pass, gate pass, or security pass. Escort passes are typically issued to those assisting unaccompanied minors, the elderly, people with disabilities, or military personnel. However, policies vary by airline, so it's best to check in advance. Some airlines may charge a fee for issuing an escort pass, so be sure to ask about any associated costs.
To obtain an escort pass, visit the ticket counter of the airline your travelling companion is flying with and request an air carrier authorization form or security pass, explaining your situation. You will need to present a valid government-issued photo ID, and the agent will complete an airline authorization form. The pass will be printed once your request has been approved. It is recommended that you arrive at least 90 minutes early to obtain the pass.
Escort passes allow you to go through airport security screening with your companion and accompany them to the departure gate. They can also be used to meet incoming passengers at their arrival gates, although this may not be possible for international flights due to customs and immigration regulations. It's important to note that as an escort pass holder, you must clear airport security and comply with the same regulations as an airline passenger.
If you are meeting someone at the airport and are unable to obtain an escort pass, you can still provide assistance. For example, you can arrange for a wheelchair attendant to help your companion or contact the airline in advance to request wheelchair service. You can also station yourself as close as possible to the arrival gate and wait for your companion. If they do not arrive within a reasonable amount of time, contact the airline and airport police, especially if other passengers from the same flight have arrived.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can. Escort passes, also known as gate passes, allow non-ticketed individuals to accompany ticketed passengers through security to the gate.
Escort passes are typically meant for guardians or family members of unaccompanied minors, people assisting elderly or disabled passengers, and military families.
Escort passes are issued by airlines, not airports. To obtain one, visit the ticket counter of the airline your friend or family member is flying with and request an air carrier authorization form or security pass, explaining your situation. You will need to present a valid government-issued photo ID.
Yes, escort passes are not issued to people meeting passengers on incoming international flights in the US due to customs and immigration regulations.
