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If you're assisting a minor, an elderly relative, or someone with special needs at the airport, getting an airport pass can be essential. Airport passes, also known as escort passes, allow non-ticketed individuals to access certain areas of the airport, such as the departure gates and the terminal's amenities. The process for obtaining an airport pass varies depending on the airport and airline, but generally, you will need to provide a valid government-issued photo ID and may need to fill out an application form or request the pass at the check-in counter. Some airports and airlines may have specific programs or requirements for airport passes, so it's important to check with the specific airport or airline before your visit.
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What You'll Learn
Airport escort passes
An airport escort pass allows family members to accompany minors, the elderly, or people with disabilities to their departure gates. Some airports and airlines will also issue escort passes to those meeting incoming passengers at their arrival gates. Escort passes are not issued to people meeting passengers on incoming international flights in the US due to customs and immigration regulations.
To obtain an escort pass, you must present a government-issued photo ID at the check-in counter and explain your situation. Escort pass holders must clear airport security and comply with the same regulations as airline passengers.
Some airports, such as San Antonio International Airport, Seattle Airport, and Tulsa International Airport, offer visitor pass programs that allow non-ticketed visitors to enter the post-security terminal. These programs often require advance online registration and may have limited availability. It is recommended to check the specific requirements and availability of the desired airport before applying for a visitor pass.
Additionally, some US airports, like Detroit Metropolitan Airport, offer in-person pass applications for non-ticketed individuals to access gate areas after security. It is important to note that escort passes may not be the solution to all gate-related issues, and alternative arrangements, such as wheelchair assistance, should be considered if needed.
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SAT Pass Program
The SAT Pass Program, launched in February 2025, allows non-ticketed individuals to access the San Antonio International Airport. Visitors can apply for the pass on the same day or up to seven days in advance. The pass is valid from the approved start time until 9 pm on the day of the visit.
The SAT Pass Program is relatively easy to apply for. Applications can be completed online or in person. Upon arrival at the airport, visitors must present a valid ID and undergo standard Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening procedures. It is important to note that non-compliant IDs will not be accepted, and visitors may be directed to a separate area for additional screening.
The SAT Pass Program is a welcome change for those who wish to spend more time with their friends and family or access airport amenities like shopping and dining. This program is especially useful for those assisting elderly parents, special needs children, or military family members.
While the SAT Pass Program currently issues passes to 50 visitors per day, this number is expected to increase as the program becomes more established. The program is a safe and secure way to grant access to non-ticketed individuals, ensuring they can greet their loved ones without compromising airport security.
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DTW Destination Pass
The Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) offers a 'DTW Destination Pass' programme, allowing non-ticketed visitors to enter the post-security terminal. This pass is available for personal use only, and commercial or professional use is prohibited.
To obtain the pass, visitors must apply at one of the kiosks in the McNamara and Evans terminals on the Departures Level. Visitors can also apply online a day before their visit. The pass can then be used the same day from 5 a.m. until 9 p.m.
To apply, visitors must scan their driver's license, state ID, or passport into the kiosk. Alternatively, they can type the required information into the kiosk. If approved, the kiosk will print out a pass. This pass must then be submitted at the TSA security checkpoint.
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ONT+ Visitor Pass
The ONT+ Visitor Pass Program at Ontario International Airport allows non-travellers to visit the airport and enjoy the amenities on the post-security side of the passenger terminal. This includes spending time with friends and family and shopping and dining at the airport. The ONT+ Visitor Pass is a permanent program, and anyone can apply for it the day of their visit or up to seven days in advance.
To apply, you must provide your date of birth, gender, and full legal name as it appears on your TSA-approved photo ID (e.g., passport or driver's license). You will receive a confirmation email verifying that your request has been received. Your request will be reviewed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). If you are applying in advance, you will receive an email with your approval status after midnight on the day of your visit. For same-day applications, you will receive an email with your status within 15 minutes.
If approved, you will receive your ONT+ Visitor Pass attached to your approval notification email. When entering the TSA checkpoint, open the attachment and provide it to the TSA, along with your TSA-approved photo ID. Make sure to inform the TSA officer that you have an ONT+ Visitor Pass. ONT+ visitors must enter through the approved passenger terminal (T2 or T4) using the TSA Checkpoint general screening line. Entry is permitted from the approved start time until 9:00 p.m. Please note that printed ONT+ Visitor Passes are not accepted.
ONT+ visitors are subject to the same security regulations as passengers boarding an aircraft. This includes complying with TSA's screening procedures and not bringing items prohibited by the TSA, such as following the 3-1-1 Liquids Rule. Additionally, 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. Therefore, it is important to ensure your ID complies with REAL ID requirements or carry an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport.
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Gate passes for minors
A gate pass is a security authorization that allows someone without an airline ticket to enter the post-security gate area. Gate passes are typically used for accompanying minors, assisting special needs persons, or meeting military family members.
Obtaining a Gate Pass for Minors:
To obtain a gate pass for a minor, visit the ticket counter of the airline and request an air carrier authorization form or security pass. Present a valid government-issued photo ID and explain your situation. Policies vary by airline, so it is essential to check in advance. For example, some airlines may require a fee for an unaccompanied minor pass, while others may offer it for free.
Unaccompanied Minors:
Some airlines offer unaccompanied minor services for children aged 5-14. In such cases, the adult checking in the child will need to provide a birth certificate or passport as proof of the child's age and their government-issued photo ID. The adult must stay with the child until the flight is airborne.
Picking Up an Unaccompanied Minor:
When picking up an unaccompanied minor, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours before the child's scheduled arrival. A valid ID must be presented, and the person meeting the child must be named during check-in. Some airlines may require the adult picking up the child to be enrolled in the unaccompanied minor program to obtain a gate pass.
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Frequently asked questions
An airport pass is a document that allows non-ticketed individuals to access airport terminals and gate areas beyond security. Airport passes are typically intended for those accompanying minors, special needs persons, or military family members.
To obtain an airport pass, you must first check the policies of the specific airport and airline. Some airports offer online applications, while others require in-person registration. You will generally need to provide a government-issued photo ID and may be subject to additional security screening.
An airport pass allows non-travellers to enter the airport beyond security checkpoints. This can be useful for those who need to accompany or greet minors, elderly parents, special needs persons, or military family members at their gate. It also enables individuals to access airport amenities, such as shopping and dining.
