Roberta Aguirre
While it is generally not possible to wait at the gate for a guest at an airport without a ticket, some US airports have introduced passes for non-travellers to go beyond security. These include San Antonio International Airport, Tulsa International Airport, and Orlando International Airport. However, there are conditions attached to these passes, such as a daily limit on the number of passes issued, a requirement to apply in advance, and restrictions on bringing hand-carried luggage. Alternatively, it is usually possible to meet arriving passengers outside their terminal or at the curbside pickup area, although this may also be subject to time limits.
Can I wait for a guest at the airport gate?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Waiting for guests at the airport gate | Only permitted for children, disabled or elderly passengers |
| Waiting for guests at the airport | Allowed in designated areas outside the terminal or curbside |
| Waiting time restrictions | Varies across airports, typically between 5-10 minutes |
| Special passes for non-ticketed visitors | Available at select airports with limitations on visitor slots and time |
| Requirements for passes | Digital pass, no hand-carried luggage, valid during approved times and terminals |
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What You'll Learn
Some US airports allow non-ticketed visitors beyond security
While it is generally not allowed for non-ticketed visitors to go beyond the security checkpoint at airports, there are a handful of US airports that do allow this. These airports have implemented a pass programme that allows non-ticketed visitors to escort their loved ones to the gate or greet them upon arrival.
Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW)
The DTW Destination Pass programme allows non-ticketed visitors to go up to 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 a.m. and 9 p.m.
Tulsa International Airport (TUL)
Tulsa International Airport in Oklahoma offers the TUL Visitor Pass programme, which allows non-ticketed visitors to enter the terminal without a ticket. Visitors can apply for the pass online for the same day or up to seven days in advance. Entry is permitted from the approved entry time until 9 p.m., and approved visitors can exit and re-enter at any time during the day.
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
The MSY Guest Pass programme allows non-ticketed visitors to enter the post-security areas of the airport. Visitors can obtain a pass every day from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance. The programme has a sanctioned limit of 50 visitors per weekday and 100 on Saturday or Sunday.
San Antonio International Airport
San Antonio International Airport offers a programme that allows non-ticketed visitors to enter the airport beyond the security checkpoint.
Orlando International Airport
The Experience MCO Visitor Pass programme allows non-ticketed visitors to explore Terminal C at Orlando International Airport. Visitors must apply for the pass within seven days of their visit and will be notified via email if they have been approved. Entry for visitors is allowed between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and all guests must leave by 8 p.m.
Other airports
Other US airports that allow non-ticketed visitors beyond security include:
- Capital Region International Airport in Lansing, Michigan: The LAN Visitor Pass Programme allows up to 25 non-ticketed visitors per day to enter the post-security areas of the terminal for up to four hours between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
- Seattle–Tacoma International Airport: The SEA Visitor Pass programme offers 300 passes available each day, and visitors must enter between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m.
- Tampa International Airport: The TPA All Access Pass is available daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. for up to 25 people.
- Palm Springs International Airport: The PSP Stay and Play Pass is available on a first-come, first-served basis, seven days a week.
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Passes are required for non-travellers to enter airside
While most airports do not allow non-travellers to enter airside due to security concerns, some U.S. airports have introduced programs that allow non-ticketed visitors to go beyond security and enter the post-security terminal. These programs typically require non-travellers to apply for a special pass in advance and present a valid government-issued ID upon arrival at the airport. Here are some examples of such programs:
SAT Pass Program
San Antonio International Airport in Texas offers the SAT Pass, which can be applied for on the day of or up to seven days in advance. The airport notes that space is limited, and once the visitor slots are full for a particular day, applications are no longer accepted. The pass is valid from the approved start time until 9 pm on the same day.
PHL Wingmate Pass
The PHL Wingmate Pass program, launched in late 2023, allows up to 100 non-ticketed visitors per day to accompany loved ones to their gate or greet them upon arrival. Applications can be submitted up to seven days ahead of time, and visitors must choose a terminal and a security time slot. The visit is limited to six hours after passing through security.
SEA Visitor Pass Program
The SEA Visitor Pass Program at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport provides 300 passes each day, allowing non-ticketed visitors to enter the airport between 5 am and 9 pm (recommended departure by 10 pm). Visitors can re-enter and exit as often as they like but must go through security each time. This pass cannot be used to meet passengers arriving from international destinations, as they need to clear customs first.
MSY Guest Pass
The MSY Guest Pass at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport requires a reservation to be made at least 24 hours in advance. The program is available seven days a week, with 50 passes available Monday through Friday and 100 passes available on weekends.
Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program
Through this program, non-ticketed visitors can explore Terminal C at Orlando International Airport in Florida. Visitors must have their passes accessible digitally, as printed versions are not accepted. No hand-carried luggage is permitted, and the pass cannot be used to meet arriving international passengers before they clear customs.
PSP Stay and Play Pass
At Palm Springs International Airport in California, the PSP Stay and Play Pass allows non-ticketed visitors to enter the TSA checkpoint general screening line. Applicants must present a REAL ID starting in May 2025. Only 10 passes are available each day, and applications must be submitted before 8:30 pm the day before the visit.
It is important to note that each airport program has its own specific requirements and limitations, and it is recommended to check the relevant airport's website for detailed information. Additionally, non-travellers must comply with standard TSA identification requirements, such as presenting a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, state-issued photo ID, or passport.
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Curbside pickup is prohibited at most airports
While it is possible to wait for a guest at the gate at some airports, curbside pickup is prohibited at most airports. Curbside management is a complex issue for airports, which must balance their role as a public utility with their need to generate revenue. Airports must accommodate a wide range of vehicles, from passenger cars to hotel shuttles, and the volume of passengers served by each airport varies greatly.
To address these challenges, some airports have implemented pass programs that allow non-ticketed visitors to enter the terminal and greet arriving passengers. These programs often have restrictions, such as a limited number of passes available per day and specific entry requirements, like digital passes and no hand-carried luggage.
For example, the SEA Visitor Pass Program at a Florida airport offers 300 passes per day, while the MSY Guest Pass program in New Orleans provides 50 passes Monday through Friday and 100 on weekends. San Antonio International Airport and Orlando International Airport also offer similar programs.
However, not all airports have followed suit, and curbside pickup remains prohibited at most airports. This is partly due to the difficulty in measuring and planning for the variable human connections that occur in pickup and drop-off zones. As a result, airports are constantly playing catch-up to the basic needs of passengers and the advancements in technology.
To assist airports in managing their curbside operations, Kittelson has developed a spreadsheet tool that helps airports customize a curbside management strategy tailored to their specific needs and user patterns. By considering factors such as the number of vehicles stopped per hour and the average time spent stopped, airports can better estimate the capacity of their curbside pickup and drop-off areas.
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Meeting spots should be designated in advance
When picking someone up from the airport, it is important to designate a meeting spot in advance. This is because only ticketed passengers are allowed to enter the gate area, and security measures may make it time-consuming to go through. In addition, parking restrictions at the curb outside most airport terminals limit waiting times to 5-10 minutes. Therefore, it is advisable to have your arriving party call you when they are heading to the curb with their luggage, or to meet them outside their terminal.
Designating a specific meeting spot in advance ensures a smooth pickup experience. This could be a baggage carousel, a particular door, or a notable landmark inside the airport, such as an elevator or a flag. Some airports also offer designated cell phone lots where you can wait for your arriving passengers to call you. This is especially useful if their flight is delayed or re-routed, as you can track their progress and adjust your plans accordingly.
If you plan to meet your arriving party inside the airport, it is recommended to park in short-term parking and wait outside their terminal. Many airports have restaurants and cafes outside the security check where you can wait, but you may be asked to leave if you wait for an extended period. Alternatively, you can schedule a ride-sharing service to pick them up if you are unable to do so yourself.
In some cases, non-ticketed visitors may be able to obtain a pass to go beyond security and meet their party at the gate. Certain U.S. airports offer special pass programs, such as the SEA Visitor Pass Program, the MSY Guest Pass, and the PHL Wingmate Pass. However, these passes often have limited availability and specific requirements, such as applying in advance and entering during designated time slots. Therefore, it is important to plan ahead and check the specific regulations of the airport you are visiting.
By designating a meeting spot in advance, you can ensure a seamless and stress-free pickup experience for both yourself and your arriving party. Whether you meet at the curb, outside the terminal, or take advantage of special pass programs, advance planning will make the process more efficient and enjoyable.
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International arrivals take longer due to customs
In the US, some airports allow non-ticketed visitors to enter beyond security and wait at the gate for arriving passengers. However, this privilege is not extended to those wishing to meet passengers flying in from international destinations, as they will need to clear customs first. International arrivals often take longer to get through the airport due to the additional customs procedures involved.
Customs is the process of checking the items you have brought with you into a country. It occurs after passport control or immigration, and after you have picked up any checked luggage from baggage claim. The time taken to clear customs can vary from a few minutes to several hours, depending on various factors. For instance, your seat location matters, as those sitting at the front of the plane will deboard first and arrive at customs sooner. The number of concurrent arriving flights can also affect your wait time, with multiple simultaneous arrivals leading to longer queues.
Some countries may require a declaration form to be filled out in advance or on arrival, while others may only ask for a verbal self-declaration. Additionally, some countries may subject all arriving passengers' bags to X-ray scanning. These procedures can further prolong the time taken to clear customs.
To expedite the customs process, some countries offer fast-track or VIP services that travellers can pay for. In the US, programs like Global Entry or the Mobile Passport app can help streamline the entry process. It is advisable to research your destination airport's procedures and services beforehand to make an informed decision.
While customs procedures are necessary, they can significantly lengthen the time taken for international arrivals to exit the airport. This extended duration should be considered when arranging transportation or scheduling connecting flights, with a recommended minimum of three hours between international arrivals and the next flight to prevent missed connections.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the airport. Some airports allow non-ticketed visitors to go beyond security and wait at the gate for their guests. However, this usually requires applying for a special pass in advance. It's important to check the specific rules and regulations of the airport you're visiting.
If you can't wait at the gate, you can meet your guest outside their terminal or do a curbside pickup. Many airports have restaurants and cafes outside the security check where you can wait. You can also schedule a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to pick them up if you can't meet them yourself.
To ensure a smooth pickup, it's important to know the airline name, flight number, connecting city, terminal, and baggage information. It's also helpful to check the status of their flight before leaving for the airport and to have your guest call you when they're ready to be picked up.
