Ruth Haines
If you want to accompany someone to their airport gate, you may be able to get an escort pass or gate pass. These passes are typically issued to those accompanying a minor child or a person with a disability to a departure gate, but they can also be issued to those meeting passengers at an arrival gate. Escort passes are not issued to those meeting passengers arriving on international flights due to customs and immigration regulations. To obtain an escort pass, you will need to present a government-issued photo ID and request the pass at the check-in counter. Some US airports also offer programs that allow non-ticketed visitors to enter the post-security terminal by applying for a special pass. These programs include the SAT Pass Program, the PHL Wingmate Pass, the Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program, and the DTW Destination Pass program.
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What You'll Learn
Escort passes for minors, elderly people, or those with disabilities
Escort passes, also known as non-passenger passes, allow individuals to accompany minors, the elderly, or those with disabilities to their gate or meet them at their destination gate. These passes are typically available to those who do not have a ticket but wish to assist a traveller in need. Here is some information regarding escort passes for specific groups:
Minors
For children travelling alone, some airlines offer an unaccompanied minor service. This service requires filling out the necessary forms and providing proof of the child's age at check-in. An adult must accompany the child to the departure gate and stay until the flight is airborne. The child will be boarded early to meet the crew and learn about safety features. The airline will notify the adult when the flight is airborne, and they can then leave the airport. Some airlines may have lounges for unaccompanied minors, where they can wait for connections under supervision.
Elderly Individuals
Airports and airlines offer various forms of assistance to seniors, including wheelchair services and help with gate check-in and baggage. Seniors can be accompanied by an assistant, family member, or friend to their gate, even if the escort does not have a ticket. They must present their ID at the ticket counter to obtain a gate pass. Additionally, seniors aged 75 and above may have special privileges, such as not having to remove shoes or jackets at security checkpoints.
Individuals with Disabilities
Airlines are required to provide prompt assistance to passengers with disabilities upon request. This includes guiding individuals with visual impairments or providing wheelchair assistance for those with mobility impairments. Passengers with disabilities can request assistance from the airline in carrying their gate-checked or carry-on luggage. Airlines must not leave a passenger with a disability unattended for more than 30 minutes unless explicitly stated by the passenger. Additionally, passengers with disabilities may be allowed to board the plane before other passengers to ensure a comfortable and safe journey.
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Applying for a pass in advance
While most airports do not allow non-travellers to enter the terminal beyond the security checkpoint, some U.S. airports do offer this provision. These airports allow non-ticketed visitors to enter the post-security terminal and be with their loved ones until the time of their departure. This is done through various pass programs. Here is a list of some of these programs and how to apply for them in advance:
- SAT Pass Program: San Antonio International Airport offers this program, which allows non-ticketed individuals to spend more time with their friends and family or shop and dine at the airport. Applications can be made up to seven days in advance. Upon arrival at the airport, you will need to show your ID and go through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening procedures with ticketed passengers.
- PHL Wingmate Pass: This is a free program that allows up to 100 non-ticketed visitors per day to accompany their loved ones to the gate or greet them upon arrival. Applications can be submitted up to seven days in advance, and you must choose a terminal and a security time slot.
- Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program: Through this program, non-ticketed visitors can explore Terminal C at Orlando International Airport. It is important to note that the pass must be accessible digitally, and no hand-carried luggage is allowed. Applications can be made up to seven days in advance.
- SEA Visitor Pass Program: This program offers 300 passes per day, and visitors must enter through Checkpoint 3 between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. Re-entry and exit are allowed throughout the day, but security checks are required each time.
- MSY Guest Pass: This pass requires a reservation to be made at least 24 hours in advance.
- DTW Destination Pass program: At Detroit Metropolitan Airport, you can apply for this pass in person at the kiosks in the McNamara and Evans terminals on the Departures Level. The pass is valid from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. on the day of application.
- Tulsa International Airport (TUL) Visitor Pass: This pass allows non-ticketed entry into the terminal and can be applied for online, either on the day of the visit or up to seven days in advance. No hand-carried luggage is allowed, and entry is only granted at the approved start time and terminal.
It is important to note that each airport has its own policies and procedures for issuing passes, and it is recommended to contact the specific airport or airline for detailed information on how to apply for a pass and any associated requirements or restrictions. Additionally, some airlines may offer gate passes that allow individuals to accompany a passenger to the gate, but this is at the airline's discretion and may depend on the specific circumstances.
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Showing ID and going through security
If you want to accompany someone through security at the airport, you will usually need to obtain a pass from the airline. This is known as a "gate pass". Each airport has its own rules regarding who qualifies for a gate pass. You should contact the airline and airport to see what arrangements can be made.
When passing through security, you will need to show ID and go through regular Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening procedures. The TSA strongly encourages travellers to check which forms of ID are acceptable before travelling, as the list of acceptable IDs is subject to change without notice. As of May 7, 2025, state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Passengers should either travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID.
Acceptable forms of ID for travellers at airport security checkpoints include:
- REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses
- State-issued photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent)
- State-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
Digital IDs are now accepted at over 250 airports, where travellers can verify their identity at TSA checkpoints through platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app. However, passengers must still carry a physical, compliant ID for verification. TSA PreCheck Touchless ID is also available at some airports and airlines, where facial recognition technology can be used for identity verification.
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Accompanying someone to the departure gate
Accompanying someone to their departure gate can be a great help, especially if they are a minor, elderly, or have mobility issues or disabilities. While security measures at airports have become stricter, there are still ways you can accompany someone to their gate.
Firstly, you can contact the airline and airport to see what arrangements can be made. Airlines can issue gate passes at their discretion, and each airport sets its own criteria for who qualifies. You can also enquire about an escort pass, which is similar to a boarding pass and allows you to go through security screening with your loved one and accompany them to the departure gate. To obtain an escort pass, you will need a government-issued photo ID, and the person you are accompanying may need to have a disability, mobility issue, or be a minor.
Secondly, some airports in the US offer programs that allow non-ticketed visitors to enter the post-security terminal. These include the SAT Pass Program at San Antonio International Airport, the PHL Wingmate Pass, the Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program at Orlando International Airport, the SEA Visitor Pass Program, the DTW Destination Pass program at Detroit Metropolitan Airport, and the LAN Visitor Pass Program at Capital Region International Airport in Lansing, Michigan. Most of these programs require you to apply in advance, typically up to seven days, and you will need to show ID and go through security screening.
It is important to note that escort passes are not issued for people meeting passengers on incoming international flights in the US due to customs and immigration regulations. If you are meeting someone arriving from another country, you will not be able to go into the Customs and Immigration hall. Additionally, some programs, like the SEA Visitor Pass Program, do not allow you to meet international arrivals at the gate. Therefore, it is essential to plan ahead and check the specific requirements and restrictions of the airport and program before applying.
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Meeting someone at the arrival gate
Escort Pass or Gate Pass
Some airports and airlines offer escort passes or gate passes, which allow non-passengers to accompany or meet minors, elderly individuals, or passengers with disabilities at the departure or arrival gates. These passes are typically issued for domestic flights and are not available for international arrivals due to customs and immigration regulations. To obtain an escort pass, you can go to the check-in counter with your relative or friend and present your photo ID. However, the availability of these passes may vary depending on the airport and airline, and it is at their discretion to issue them.
Pass Programs
A few US airports have implemented pass programs that allow non-ticketed visitors to access certain terminals or gates. Examples include the SAT Pass Program at San Antonio International Airport, the PHL Wingmate Pass in Philadelphia, the Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program at Orlando International Airport, and the SEA Visitor Pass Program. These programs usually require an application and have specific rules and time restrictions. Be sure to check the requirements and availability for the specific airport you are interested in.
Concierge Services
Some companies offer concierge services that include meeting clients at the arrival gate. For example, Churchill Executive Cars provides a meet-and-greet service at JFK and other major New York-area airports. They can assist passengers with their luggage and escort them through customs and immigration. Similar services may be available from other companies, such as limousine services or tour operators, who have staff with the necessary security clearance and airport IDs.
Alternative Options
If you are unable to obtain a pass or access the arrival gate, there are still ways to assist your arriving loved one. You can station yourself as close to the arrival gate as possible and wait for them. If they require assistance with customs and immigration, you can arrange for a wheelchair attendant or another type of escort service to meet them at the gate. Additionally, you can coordinate with the airline and airport police if your loved one does not arrive as expected or if you notice the arrival of other passengers from the same flight.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is possible to accompany someone to their departure gate. You will need to apply for a pass, such as an escort pass, gate pass, or visitor pass, from the airport or airline. These passes are typically available for those accompanying minor children, elderly, or disabled passengers.
Escort passes are usually issued by the airline at the check-in counter. You will need to present a government-issued photo ID. It is recommended to call ahead to inquire about the specific requirements and availability of escort passes.
Yes, there are several U.S. airports that offer this option, including San Antonio International Airport, Orlando International Airport, Detroit Metropolitan Airport, and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Each airport has its own application process and requirements, so be sure to check the specific airport's website for details.
