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Non-travellers can enter the post-security terminal in some U.S. airports, such as the Orlando International Airport, the John Wayne Airport, and the PHL Wingmate Pass Program airport. The PHL Wingmate Pass Program, launched in late 2023, is a free program that allows up to 100 non-ticketed visitors to travel with their loved ones to their gate. Similarly, the Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program allows non-ticketed visitors to explore Terminal C at the Orlando International Airport. However, non-ticketed visitors cannot bring any hand-carried luggage with them and must have their pass accessible digitally. At the John Wayne Airport, non-travellers can enter with an OC AirPASS and a valid government-issued ID. Additionally, airlines may issue gate passes at their discretion, allowing non-travellers to accompany someone to their gate.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can non-travellers accompany travellers through the airport? | Yes, non-travellers can escort travellers through the airport in some cases. |
| Requirements | Non-travellers may need to apply for a pass, such as a gate pass, SAT Pass, or OC AirPASS. They may also need to provide a valid government-issued ID. |
| Availability | Not all airports allow non-travellers to escort travellers. Some airports that do include Orlando International Airport, John Wayne Airport, and PHL Airport. |
| Restrictions | Non-travellers may not be able to meet travellers arriving from international destinations as they need to clear customs first. They may also not be allowed to carry luggage with them. |
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What You'll Learn
- Non-travellers can enter the post-security terminal at some US airports
- Gate passes are available at the airline's discretion
- Gate pass holders must meet standard traveller requirements
- Some airports have visitor pass programs for non-ticketed visitors
- Non-travellers can escort friends and family to the gate
Non-travellers can enter the post-security terminal at some US airports
Since the implementation of increased security measures and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) after 9/11, non-ticketed passengers have generally not been allowed past security. However, some US airports have introduced visitor pass programs that allow non-travellers to enter the post-security terminal. These programs were designed to allow friends and family to see loved ones off at the gate and make use of the airport amenities.
One of the first airports to implement such a program was Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), which launched its DTW Destination Pass in 2019. The pass is available for both the McNamara and Evans terminals and can be applied for and used on the same day between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. Applicants need only scan a US government-issued ID at the kiosk.
Orlando International Airport (MCO) also has a visitor pass program, which started as a pilot in September 2023. The ExperienceMCO Visitor Pass Program allows non-travelling guests to visit Terminal C, which features 23 eateries and many shops. Visitors can apply for the program up to a week in advance on the airport website and must have their pass accessible digitally, as printed passes are not allowed.
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) offers the PHL Wingmate Guest Pass, which started in November 2023. This pass allows visitors to enter the airport for its amenities or to say goodbye to loved ones.
Other airports with visitor pass programs include Tulsa International Airport (TUL) in Oklahoma, Capital Region International Airport in Lansing, Michigan, and Ontario International Airport (ONT) in California. These programs generally require visitors to apply for a pass in advance and arrive at the airport with a valid photo ID. Visitors are not permitted to bring any hand-carried luggage with them.
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Gate passes are available at the airline's discretion
To be eligible for a gate pass, you will need to present a valid government-issued photo ID and provide flight information. Some airlines may also require you to fill out a form in advance, which can typically be found on the scheduling page of the airline's website. This form will ask for information such as the flight name, date, and time, and confirmation is usually received approximately 36 hours before the flight. It is also important to allow additional time for potential lines at the ticket counter and to check that the ticket counter is open for requesting a gate pass for an arriving flight.
Airlines that are known to provide escort passes for eligible situations include Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, and United. Additionally, certain airports offer gate pass programs, such as Lansing's Capital Region International Airport, which issues up to 25 LAN Visitor Passes per day, and Detroit Metro Airport, which offers the "DTW Destination Pass" for non-ticketed individuals to access gate areas after security.
It is important to note that gate passes are not guaranteed, and circumstances beyond the control of the airline or airport may result in the denial or unavailability of gate passes. The total time commitment for a greeting inside security with a gate pass can be up to 4 hours, and while at the gate, it is important to maintain a clear walkway for veterans and follow the instructions of the terminal support crew.
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Gate pass holders must meet standard traveller requirements
A gate pass is a security authorization that allows someone without an airline ticket to enter the sterile (post-security) gate area. This is usually to accompany an unaccompanied minor, assist a traveller with special needs, or meet military personnel or other loved ones on arrival.
To obtain a gate pass, you must visit the departing traveller's airline ticket counter and present a valid, government-issued photo ID. You will then need to request an escort or security (gate) pass. Once your reason for entering the gate area has been approved, the agent will complete an airline authorization form and print the pass. It is worth noting that some airlines, such as Delta, bundle the cost of the gate pass into their Unaccompanied Minor service fee, which is currently $150 each way for up to four children. Therefore, it is always recommended to confirm the carrier's policy in advance.
In addition to obtaining a gate pass, gate pass holders must also meet standard traveller requirements. This includes passing through security and undergoing screening procedures, such as removing all items and placing them on an X-ray belt for screening. Electronic devices larger than a cell phone, such as laptops and tablets, will need to be removed from carry-on baggage and placed in a separate bin for X-ray screening. It is important to note that TSA PreCheck® allows travellers to speed through security without removing shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, and light jackets. However, this expedited screening is not guaranteed, as the TSA employs unpredictable security measures.
Furthermore, gate pass holders must provide acceptable identification to enter the security checkpoint. While TSA accepts expired IDs up to two years after expiration, individuals who decline to provide identification or cooperate with the identity verification process will not be permitted to enter. Children under 18 travelling within the United States are not required to provide identification, although unaccompanied minors eligible for TSA PreCheck must show acceptable ID.
By adhering to the gate pass application process and meeting the standard traveller requirements, individuals can successfully obtain authorization to enter the sterile gate area and accompany their loved ones.
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Some airports have visitor pass programs for non-ticketed visitors
Some airports have implemented visitor pass programs for non-ticketed visitors, allowing them to access certain areas beyond security. These programs enable individuals without a boarding pass to accompany loved ones to their gates, greet arriving passengers, or simply enjoy the airport's amenities. Here are some examples of airports with such visitor pass programs:
San Antonio International Airport (SAT Pass Program)
San Antonio International Airport in Texas introduced the SAT Pass Program, allowing non-ticketed individuals to spend more time with their friends and family or access the airport's shopping and dining options. Applications can be submitted up to seven days in advance, and visitors need to present their ID and undergo standard TSA screening procedures upon arrival.
Orlando International Airport (Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program)
The Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program at Orlando International Airport allows non-ticketed visitors to explore Terminal C. Visitors can apply for a pass online within seven days of their visit and will receive notification via email if approved. They can then enter Terminal C during designated hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and must depart by 8 p.m.
Ontario International Airport (ONT+ Visitor Pass Program)
The ONT+ Visitor Pass Program at Ontario International Airport in California offers non-ticketed visitors access to the post-security side of passenger terminals 2 and 4. Applicants need to provide their personal information, including date of birth, gender, and full legal name, along with a TSA-approved photo ID. The program is available daily, but visitors can only enter during their approved start time.
Palm Springs International Airport (PSP Stay and Play Pass)
Palm Springs International Airport in California offers the PSP Stay and Play Pass, which allows non-ticketed visitors to access the airport's facilities. Visitors can apply online within seven days of their visit and will receive approval via email. They then proceed to the TSA checkpoint at their designated entry time, presenting their photo ID and digital pass.
Tulsa International Airport (TUL Visitor Pass)
Tulsa International Airport in Oklahoma offers the TUL Visitor Pass, which allows non-ticketed visitors to enter the terminal. Applications can be made online for the same day or up to seven days in advance. Visitors cannot bring any hand-carried luggage, and entry is only granted at the approved start time and terminal.
These visitor pass programs offer a convenient way for non-ticketed individuals to accompany travellers to their gates, spend time with loved ones, or access airport amenities. Each airport's program has specific application processes, entry requirements, and operating hours, so it is essential to check the relevant airport's website for detailed information.
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Non-travellers can escort friends and family to the gate
Non-travellers can usually escort their friends and family to the gate, but this is at the discretion of the airline. Some airlines may issue gate passes to non-travellers, but the requirements for obtaining one vary from airport to airport. It is important to contact the airline and airport beforehand to see what arrangements can be made.
To obtain a gate pass, a non-traveller must usually meet the same standards as a regular traveller. This includes possessing proper identification and undergoing standard security screening, including the same restrictions on liquids, gels, and aerosols.
Some U.S. airports have implemented programs that allow non-travellers to access the post-security terminal. For example, the PHL Wingmate Pass is a free program that allows up to 100 non-ticketed visitors to accompany their loved ones to the gate. Similarly, the Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program allows non-ticketed visitors to explore Terminal C at Orlando International Airport. However, visitors must have their passes accessible digitally, and they are not permitted to bring any hand-carried luggage. The SEA Visitor Pass Program in Seattle offers 300 passes per day, and visitors can enter and exit the airport as often as they like, but they must pass through security each time.
In Ontario, California, non-ticketed visitors can obtain an OC AirPASS by presenting a valid government-issued ID at the Information Booth in Terminals A, B, or C. The ONT+ Visitor Pass Program requires applicants to specify which terminal they wish to access and the time of their visit. It is important to note that the pass only grants access to the specified terminal, and visitors must have their photo ID and a fully charged phone with the digital pass accessible at all times.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, some airports in the U.S. allow non-travellers to escort their friends or family to the gate without a ticket. You may need to apply for a pass in advance, and you will need to bring a valid government-issued ID.
Yes, you will need to follow the same rules as a regular traveller. This includes having proper ID, undergoing standard TSA screening, and adhering to the same banned item restrictions.
Yes, you can request a gate pass from the airline if the person you are accompanying needs assistance. The airline and airport will determine whether a gate pass is necessary based on the individual's needs.
