Owais Crawford
In the past, visitors could walk around airport terminals without a ticket, but after the 9/11 attacks, security measures were heightened, and only ticketed passengers were allowed beyond the lobby. However, some airports have started to implement visitor pass programs, allowing non-ticketed visitors to access certain areas of the airport. These visitor passes are usually limited and require registration or application in advance. Some airports also allow non-ticketed visitors to escort family and friends to the gate or meet them upon arrival without needing a pass.
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What You'll Learn
- Some airports allow non-ticketed visitors to enter post-security terminals
- Certain airports require a pass for non-ticketed visitors to enter
- A few airports have resumed pre-pandemic visitor programs
- Visitor passes are often limited, and applications are first-come, first-served
- Non-ticketed visitors must follow security screening regulations
Some airports allow non-ticketed visitors to enter post-security terminals
In the United States, some airports allow non-ticketed visitors to enter post-security terminals. This was a common practice before 9/11, when friends and family could meet and mingle at the terminal gates to see their loved ones off or greet them upon arrival. While the pandemic put a halt to these programs, they have started to reappear at several airports across the country.
One example is the MCO Visitor Pass program at Orlando International Airport in Florida, which allows non-ticketed visitors to access Terminal C and enjoy its bars, restaurants, and retail stores. To obtain a pass, non-fliers must fill out an online application within seven days of their visit and provide a TSA-approved photo ID. Passes are valid from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and visitors must leave by 8 p.m.
Another airport offering a similar program is the Ontario International Airport in California. Through its ONT+ Visitor Pass program, non-travelers can access Terminal 2 and 4 by applying online within seven days of their visit. The Detroit Metropolitan Airport also offers the DTW Destination Pass program, which allows non-ticketed visitors to enter the terminal by applying in person at the kiosks in the McNamara and Evans terminals.
The SAT Pass Program in Texas is another initiative that allows non-travelers to enter the post-security terminal. Passes are limited, and applications can be made on the day of or up to seven days in advance. The PHL Wingmate Pass is a free program that permits up to 100 non-ticketed visitors per day to accompany their loved ones to the gate or greet them upon arrival. Applications for this program can be submitted up to seven days in advance, and visits are limited to six hours.
While these programs offer a nostalgic experience and enhance the accessibility of airport amenities, it is important to note that security and safety regulations remain a priority. Visitors are subject to the same security screening procedures as air travelers and must adhere to the rules and restrictions in place.
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Certain airports require a pass for non-ticketed visitors to enter
In the past, non-passengers were allowed to navigate airports without a valid ticket or boarding pass. However, after the 9/11 terror attacks, security measures were tightened, and now most airports require a valid ticket or boarding pass to pass through security. Nevertheless, certain airports have implemented visitor pass programmes that allow non-ticketed visitors to access specific areas of the airport.
One example of this is the MCO Visitor Pass Program at Orlando International Airport in Florida. Through this programme, non-ticketed visitors can explore Terminal C, accessing its bars, restaurants, and retail stores. To obtain an MCO Visitor Pass, non-fliers must fill out an online application within seven days of their visit and will be notified via email if approved. It is important to note that visitors must have their passes accessible digitally and cannot bring any hand-carried luggage with them.
Another airport offering a similar programme is the Detroit Metropolitan Airport, where individuals can apply for the DTW Destination Pass in person at kiosks in the McNamara and Evans terminals. The pass is valid from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. on the day of application. Tulsa International Airport in Oklahoma also offers a visitor pass programme, where non-ticketed visitors can apply online up to seven days in advance. As with other programmes, visitors cannot bring any hand-carried luggage, and entry is only granted at the approved start time and terminal.
Additionally, the SEA Visitor Pass Program at Seattle–Tacoma International Airport offers 300 passes daily, allowing visitors to enter between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. and re-enter and exit as often as they like, subject to security checks each time. The PSP Stay and Play Pass at Palm Springs International Airport in California is available on a first-come, first-served basis, seven days a week. Approved visitors receive notification via email and can proceed to the TSA checkpoint at their designated entry time.
These visitor pass programmes offer non-travellers the opportunity to access certain areas of the airport, subject to security checks and specific regulations, providing flexibility and accessibility to airport amenities and services.
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A few airports have resumed pre-pandemic visitor programs
A slow return to normalcy is being witnessed at airports across the United States, with several resuming their pre-pandemic visitor programs. These programs allow non-ticketed visitors to enter the post-security terminal areas, providing an opportunity to spend time with travelling companions or greet arriving loved ones.
One of the first airports to reintroduce this initiative was Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), which relaunched its DTW Destination Pass program in 2021 after a temporary suspension during the pandemic. The program allows up to 50 visitors on weekdays and 100 visitors per day on weekends to access the McNamara and North terminals from 8 am to 8 pm.
Similarly, Bishop International Airport in Flint, Michigan, restarted its FNT Visitors Pass Program in March 2021. Visitors can pre-register online and then check in at the airport's police station to obtain their pass. This pass enables them to go through the TSA checkpoint and access the airside area.
Orlando International Airport (MCO) in Florida has also joined the list of airports offering visitor passes. Through the Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program, non-ticketed visitors can explore Terminal C, but they must have their pass accessible digitally and cannot carry any luggage.
Other airports that have resumed their visitor programs include John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County, California, which introduced the OCAirPASS program, and Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), which received TSA approval to test a visitor program in 2017. Airports in Seattle, New Orleans, and Tulsa, Oklahoma, have also welcomed back visitors with similar initiatives.
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Visitor passes are often limited, and applications are first-come, first-served
Visitor passes for airports are often limited, and applications are typically first-come, first-served. This means that it is important to plan ahead and apply for a pass as early as possible. Some airports, such as Orlando International Airport (MCO), require visitors to fill out an online application within seven days of their visit. Others, like Capital Region International Airport in Lansing, Michigan, offer passes on a purely first-come, first-served basis.
The availability of visitor passes can vary by airport and day of the week. For example, Detroit Metropolitan Airport offers 50 passes Monday through Friday and increases to 100 passes per day on the weekends. Similarly, the SAT Pass Program at a Texas airport limits the number of passes to 25 per day. Therefore, it is essential to check the specific rules and availability for the airport you plan to visit.
Some airports may also have specific requirements or restrictions for visitor passes. For instance, the MCO Visitor Pass at Orlando International Airport only grants access to Terminal C, and visitors must have their pass accessible digitally as printed versions are not allowed. Additionally, non-ticketed visitors are not permitted to bring any hand-carried luggage with them.
It is worth noting that not all airports offer visitor passes or allow non-ticketed visitors beyond the security checkpoint. In the United States, this practice was more common before the events of 9/11 but has since become less prevalent due to increased security measures. However, a growing number of airports are once again introducing programs that allow approved visitors without a boarding pass to venture past security and meet their loved ones at the gates.
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Non-ticketed visitors must follow security screening regulations
In the United States, several airports have implemented guest pass programs that allow non-ticketed visitors to pass through security screening checkpoints and enter the post-security terminal areas. These programs were initially gaining traction before the pandemic but were put on hold as airports navigated the challenges of that period. Now, many airports have resumed or launched such initiatives, providing non-travelers with the opportunity to meet and see off their loved ones beyond the security gates.
While the specific application processes and requirements may vary across different airports, there are standard security screening regulations that non-ticketed visitors must adhere to. These regulations are in place to ensure the safety and security of all individuals within the airport premises. Here is an overview of the key security screening guidelines that non-ticketed visitors must follow:
- Pass Application and Approval: Non-ticketed visitors are generally required to apply for a pass in advance, often through online or in-person applications. Some airports offer passes on a first-come, first-served basis, while others have daily limits on the number of passes issued. It is important to check the specific airport's website for their pass program details and availability.
- Identification and Verification: To obtain a visitor pass, individuals typically need to provide a valid government-issued photo ID and undergo email verification. This identification process ensures that visitors' identities are confirmed before they are granted access to secure areas.
- Security Screening Procedures: Non-ticketed visitors are subject to the same security screening procedures as ticketed passengers. This includes passing through metal detectors, X-ray machines, and other security checks. Any items prohibited by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are not allowed through security checkpoints.
- Prohibited Items and Restrictions: Non-ticketed visitors must comply with the TSA's restrictions on prohibited items. This includes leaving any hand-carried luggage behind, as it is not permitted. Additionally, certain items, such as powders in carry-on baggage, may require secondary screening or be prohibited altogether. It is essential to stay informed about the latest TSA guidelines on permitted and prohibited items.
- Compliance with TSA Regulations: Non-ticketed visitors are expected to cooperate fully with the TSA's security measures and regulations. This includes following the instructions of TSA officers, submitting to additional screening if necessary, and reporting any suspicious activities or unattended items as per the "If You See Something, Say Something™" campaign.
- Time Constraints: Visitor passes are typically valid for a specified duration, such as four or six hours. It is important to adhere to the approved time slot and exit the secure area by the designated time. Some airports may also have specific entry and exit times associated with their pass programs.
By following these security screening regulations, non-ticketed visitors can enjoy the benefits of accessing airport terminals to meet or see off their loved ones while also contributing to the overall safety and security of the airport environment. These guidelines are in place to ensure the protection of all individuals and adhere to the TSA's security protocols.
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Frequently asked questions
Generally, no. You need a valid ticket or boarding pass to go through security and access the terminal.
Yes, there are some airports that offer visitor pass programs that allow people without a valid ticket to enter the airport terminal and explore it.
Visitor passes are usually available at the airport, at check-in counters, or at gate pass desks. Some airports also offer the facility to apply for a pass online.
Visitor passes are available at the following airports:
- Capital Region International Airport, Lansing, Michigan
- John Wayne Airport, Santa Ana, California
- Orlando International Airport, Florida
- Seattle–Tacoma International Airport
- Tampa International Airport, Florida
- Palm Springs International Airport, California
- Bishop International Airport, Flint, Michigan
Yes, you will need an escort pass to accompany someone to the gate. These are available from the airline and can be applied for a few days before the flight.
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