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While airport security measures have become stricter since 9/11, certain airports do allow non-ticketed visitors to access post-security areas. Non-travellers can apply for special passes, such as the SAT Pass Program, the SEA Visitor Pass Program, or the Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program, to enter beyond security and spend time with friends or family or access airport amenities. These passes are typically applied for in advance and require a valid government-issued ID, compliance with standard security screening procedures, and adherence to specific regulations and time limits. Escort passes are also available at some airports, enabling individuals to accompany minors, elderly, or those with disabilities through security and to departure gates.
Airport Security Pass Characteristics and Values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Airport Security Pass Types | Escort Pass, SAT Pass, PHL Wingmate Pass, SEA Visitor Pass, Experience MCO Visitor Pass, OC AirPASS, ONT+ Visitor Pass |
| Who can get a pass? | Family members or friends of travellers |
| When to apply for a pass | Day of the visit or up to seven days in advance |
| Application requirements | A valid government-issued ID, full legal name, date of birth, sex, arrival time, terminal and security time slot |
| Security measures | Compliance with TSA screening procedures, no prohibited items, light outerwear or bulky clothing, electronics larger than a cell phone, powders over 12 oz. in checked baggage |
| Pass validity | Valid from the approved start time until 9 pm the same night |
| Additional benefits | Greeting arriving passengers at the gate, accompanying minors, elderly, or those with disabilities, access to airport amenities |
| Limitations | Not valid for meeting passengers arriving from international destinations, limited visitor slots and passes per day, no guaranteed entry |
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What You'll Learn
Non-ticketed visitors can access certain US airports
In the post-9/11 world, security measures at airports have become stringent. While most airports require a boarding pass to get through security, there are a few US airports that allow non-ticketed visitors to pass through security. These exceptions are usually made for non-travelers to accompany friends or family who are in transit.
Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW)
Detroit Metropolitan Airport was one of the first airports to allow non-ticketed visitors through security. The DTW Destination Pass program allows visitors to go up to the gates. The pass can be used at 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. Non-ticketed visitors can apply at the kiosks on the Departures Level by scanning a valid US government-issued photo ID.
Tulsa International Airport (TUL)
Tulsa International Airport in Oklahoma allows non-fliers to reserve a TUL Visitor Pass up to seven days in advance. Entry is permitted on the day of use starting at the approved entry time and until 9 p.m., and approved visitors can exit and re-enter anytime during the day. Non-ticketed visitors cannot bring any hand-carried luggage with them.
San Antonio International Airport
San Antonio International Airport recently launched the SAT Pass Program, which allows non-ticketed visitors to spend more time with their friends and family or shop and dine at the airport. Applications can be completed up to seven days in advance. Upon arrival at the airport, visitors need to show ID and go through the regular Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening procedures with ticketed passengers.
Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Orlando International Airport's Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program allows non-ticketed visitors to enter Terminal C. Visitors can apply for the program up to seven days in advance. While there is a cap for visitors each day, those who are approved will get an approval email after midnight on the day of their visit. Visitors cannot bring any hand-carried luggage with them and cannot use the pass to meet anyone flying in from an international destination at the gate.
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
Philadelphia International Airport's PHL Wingmate Pass is a free program that allows non-ticketed visitors up to 100 visitors a day to travel with loved ones to their gate or greet them upon arrival. The pass includes select dining and shopping deals. Visitors can apply for the pass the day of or up to seven days in advance and will receive the pass via email.
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Escort passes allow family members to accompany minors or those with disabilities
In the United States, certain airports allow non-ticketed visitors to enter the post-security terminal. These include San Antonio International Airport, which offers the SAT Pass Program, and Orlando International Airport, which offers the Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program. However, these passes are not meant for meeting passengers arriving from international destinations as they need to clear customs first.
Escort passes, also known as gate passes, are available for family members or guardians accompanying minors or those with disabilities to the airport gate. Airlines typically issue these passes, and they allow pass holders to go through airport security screening and accompany their loved ones to the departure gate. It is important to note that escort passes are not always available at the airport, so it is recommended to plan ahead and contact the airline at least 48 hours in advance to arrange any necessary assistance, such as wheelchair services.
To obtain an escort pass, individuals must present a government-issued photo ID at the airline check-in counter and request the pass. Some airlines, such as Delta, require a valid ID and signature capture of the person meeting the minor. It is also important to arrive early, typically at least 90 minutes before departure, to obtain the escort pass and ensure a smooth process.
Once the escort pass is obtained, pass holders must comply with the same regulations as airline passengers. They can accompany their loved ones through security screening and to the departure gate. However, escort passes do not provide access to the Customs and Immigration hall for passengers arriving from international flights.
In addition to minors, escort passes can also be obtained for elderly relatives or friends with special needs. These passes are available at various major airlines, including Delta, United, and JetBlue, which offer straightforward policies for assisting adults with disabilities. It is important to note that issuance policies may vary among airlines and airports, so checking ahead of time is recommended.
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You must apply for a pass in advance
If you are not a ticketed traveller, you can still gain access to certain areas beyond the security checkpoint at some US airports. However, you must apply for a pass in advance.
For instance, the SAT Pass Program at San Antonio International Airport allows non-ticketed individuals to spend more time with their friends and family or shop and dine at the airport. The application process is relatively simple and can be completed up to seven days ahead of your visit. Upon arrival at the airport, you will need to present your ID and undergo standard TSA screening procedures alongside ticketed passengers.
Similarly, the PHL Wingmate Pass is a complimentary program introduced in late 2023 that permits up to 100 non-ticketed visitors daily to accompany their loved ones to the gate or greet them upon arrival. The Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program at Orlando International Airport in Florida also offers non-ticketed visitors access to Terminal C. However, it is important to note that you must apply for this pass digitally, and no hand-carried luggage is permitted.
Additionally, certain airports and airlines provide escort passes that enable individuals to accompany their loved ones or friends through security screening and to the departure gate. These passes are particularly useful for those travelling with minor children, elderly relatives, or individuals with disabilities. It is recommended to plan ahead and contact the airline at least 48 hours in advance to request an escort pass and arrange any necessary assistance, such as wheelchair services.
To obtain a pass at specific airports, such as the OC AirPASS at John Wayne Airport in Orange County, California, you must visit the Information Booth in Terminal A, B, or C, with a valid government-issued ID. An online security system will verify your application, and you will receive a printed pass that you must keep with you at all times, even after passing through the TSA checkpoint.
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You'll need to show ID and comply with security measures
For those without a plane ticket, some US airports offer a service that allows you to apply for a special pass to go through airport security. This includes the SAT Pass Program at San Antonio International Airport, the PHL Wingmate Pass, the Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program at Orlando International Airport, and the SEA Visitor Pass Program. To apply for these passes, you will typically need to submit an application ahead of your visit, usually up to seven days in advance. Upon arrival at the airport, you will need to show ID and go through Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening procedures.
The type of ID required varies depending on your location and citizenship status. For example, in the US, adult passengers aged 18 and over must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint to travel. This can include a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a state-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL), or a passport. It is important to check the specific requirements for your location and citizenship status before travelling, as the list of acceptable IDs may change without notice.
In addition to presenting valid identification, you must comply with security measures at the airport. This includes screening procedures such as removing all items and placing them on an X-ray belt for inspection. It is recommended to arrive at the airport early to allow enough time for the screening process. Certain items, such as powders in carry-on baggage, may require secondary screening or may be prohibited from the aircraft altogether.
Furthermore, security measures at airports are not limited to the screening process. TSA works closely with intelligence and law enforcement to share information and adjust their procedures as needed to meet evolving threats. Passengers are also encouraged to report any suspicious activities, such as unattended bags or individuals trying to enter restricted areas. These measures are in place to ensure the safety and security of all travellers.
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Some airports offer post-security visitor programs
The SAT Pass Program at San Antonio International Airport is one such program, allowing non-ticketed visitors to spend time with friends and family or enjoy the airport's amenities. The PHL Wingmate Pass is another example, permitting up to 100 non-ticketed visitors per day to accompany loved ones to their gate or greet them upon arrival. Other airports with similar programs include Orlando International Airport, Capital Region International Airport in Lansing, Michigan, and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
To obtain a visitor pass, individuals typically need to apply in advance, sometimes up to seven days ahead. Applications require personal details and identification, and each application is thoroughly vetted against security databases. Upon arrival at the airport, visitors must present their pass, which may need to be digital, and undergo the same screening procedures as ticketed passengers. It's important to note that these passes do not provide unrestricted access to all terminals and areas within an airport.
Visitor passes have multiple benefits, including fostering family connections, providing nostalgic reminders of pre-9/11 open-access travel, and generating additional revenue for airport businesses. They also enable individuals with specific needs, such as those with disabilities or seeing-eye dogs in training, to become more comfortable with the airport environment.
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Frequently asked questions
An airport escort pass allows you to go through airport security screening and accompany your friend or family member to the departure gate. It is usually used for minors, elderly people, or those with disabilities.
You can request an escort pass from the airline. However, escort passes are not always issued, especially if your loved one does not fall into one of the categories mentioned above. If you are unable to obtain an escort pass, you may need to wait outside the arrival gate.
Yes, some US airports offer visitor pass programs that allow non-ticketed visitors to enter the post-security terminal. Notable examples include the SAT Pass Program at San Antonio International Airport, the PHL Wingmate Pass, the SEA Visitor Pass Program, and the Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program at Orlando International Airport.
All individuals passing through airport security are subject to screening procedures by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). This includes removing items such as electronics, liquids, shoes, belts, and jackets for X-ray screening. Additionally, light outerwear and bulky clothing may need to be removed or subjected to additional screening. It is recommended to arrive early at the airport to allow sufficient time for the screening process.
