Jazmin Li
While it is no longer possible for family members to accompany travellers to their departure gate without a boarding pass, some airports and airlines offer escort passes that allow non-travellers to enter secure areas of the airport. These passes are typically issued to those accompanying or meeting minors, elderly relatives, people with disabilities, or military service members. The availability of these passes varies across airports, airlines, and ticket agents, and they are usually obtained from the check-in counter or a customer service agent. Some airports also offer pass programs that allow non-ticketed visitors to enter the terminal and access certain amenities. However, there are limitations and security procedures that must be followed when obtaining and using these passes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is it possible to go with family to the airport gate? | Yes, but it depends on the airport and the airline. |
| Who can get an escort pass? | Family members of arriving and departing military service members, guardians of unaccompanied minors, and people accompanying elderly or disabled passengers. |
| How to get an escort pass? | Apply online or in person at the airport. Escort passes are issued by the airline, so visit a customer service agent at a ticket counter. |
| What documents are required for an escort pass? | A valid government-issued photo ID. |
| What is the validity of the escort pass? | The pass is usually valid from the approved start time until 9 pm on the same day. |
| How early should the application be submitted? | Applications can be submitted on the day of or up to seven days in advance. |
| Any limitations on the number of visitors? | Yes, the number of visitor slots varies across airports. For example, Tulsa International Airport allows up to 100 non-ticketed visitors per day, while Capital Region International Airport allows up to 25. |
| Can visitors bring luggage? | No, non-ticketed visitors cannot bring any hand-carried luggage with them. |
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What You'll Learn
- Escort passes are available for family members assisting unaccompanied minors
- Non-passenger escort passes are issued to people accompanying passengers with disabilities
- Gate passes are possible if you're the parent of an unaccompanied minor
- You can apply for a pass to enter the terminal without a ticket
- Passes are available for family members of arriving and departing military service members
Escort passes are available for family members assisting unaccompanied minors
If you are seeing off a family member who is an unaccompanied minor, you may be able to obtain an escort pass to accompany them to the gate. This is possible at some airports, but not all, and the availability of such passes varies by airport and airline.
At the destination, a parent or accompanying adult should arrive at the airport two hours before the scheduled arrival to obtain a gate pass. The adult must present a valid ID, and a Delta representative will contact the original accompanying adult to verify the identification of the person picking up the child.
Some airports also offer specific programs for non-travellers to enter the post-security terminal. For example, San Antonio International Airport offers the SAT Pass Program, which allows non-ticketed individuals to spend more time with friends and family or access airport amenities. The SEA Visitor Pass Program at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and the Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program at Orlando International Airport offer similar services.
It is important to note that the availability of escort passes and non-traveller programs varies by airport and airline, and there may be specific requirements and restrictions in place. It is always best to check with the relevant airport and airline beforehand to understand their specific policies and procedures.
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Non-passenger escort passes are issued to people accompanying passengers with disabilities
In most cases, only ticketed passengers are allowed to enter the airport and proceed to the boarding gate. However, some airports and airlines offer escort passes or gate passes for non-passengers accompanying passengers with disabilities. These passes allow non-passengers to access the departure gate and assist their loved ones or friends who need help.
To obtain an escort pass, you will typically need to go to the check-in counter with your relative or friend and request a pass by presenting your photo ID. It is recommended to call ahead to inquire about the escort pass, as issuance may vary depending on the airline and airport. Some programs, such as the SAT Pass Program at San Antonio International Airport, require applications up to seven days in advance, while others like the DTW Destination Pass program at Detroit Metropolitan Airport allow for same-day applications.
Escort passes enable non-passengers to accompany individuals with disabilities through airport security screening and to the departure gate. They can also be used to meet minor children or persons with disabilities at arrival gates for domestic flights. However, it is important to note that escort passes do not provide access to the Customs and Immigration hall for international arrivals. If your loved one requires assistance with Customs, consider arranging for a wheelchair attendant to meet them at the arrival gate.
Additionally, some airlines, such as American Airlines, offer special assistance for passengers with disabilities. This includes wheelchair assistance, early boarding, and accommodating specific needs, such as hearing impairments or the need for a service animal. These services can be requested during booking or by contacting the airline directly.
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Gate passes are possible if you're the parent of an unaccompanied minor
While airport security measures have become stricter since 9/11, it is still possible for parents or guardians to accompany their children to the departure gate. This is especially true for parents of unaccompanied minors, i.e., children flying alone, typically between the ages of 5 and 17.
Several airlines have specific procedures in place for unaccompanied minors. For instance, Delta Air Lines and American Airlines require parents or guardians to fill out an unaccompanied minor form and provide a birth certificate or passport as proof of the child's age. The adult must also present their government-issued photo ID. Once checked in, the parent or guardian is given a security pass to escort the child to the gate and remain until the flight departs. Some airlines, like American Airlines, also offer supervised lounges for unaccompanied minors during connections.
At the arrival airport, the designated pickup person will typically be issued a gate pass to collect the child. They must present valid ID, and in some cases, a signature is required. If someone other than the person named at check-in arrives to pick up the child, the airline may contact the original accompanying adult to verify the new person's identification.
In addition to these standard procedures, some U.S. airports offer programs that allow non-ticketed visitors to enter the post-security terminal and accompany travellers to their gates. These include the SAT Pass Program at San Antonio International Airport, the PHL Wingmate Pass at Philadelphia International Airport, and the Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program at Orlando International Airport. However, these programs often have limited slots and specific requirements, such as digital passes and no hand-carried luggage. Therefore, it is essential to check the specific rules of the airport in question.
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You can apply for a pass to enter the terminal without a ticket
While it is generally not possible to enter an airport terminal without a ticket, some airports have introduced visitor pass programs that allow non-ticketed individuals to access certain areas of the airport. These passes are often intended for those escorting or meeting unaccompanied minors, assisting travellers with special needs, or greeting military personnel or loved ones at their gates.
Escort Pass
Some airports will allow a pass for individuals to come through security with family. These are called Escort Passes. To obtain one, you will need to check in at the airport with an agent, who can issue the pass for you.
SAT Pass Program
San Antonio International Airport offers the SAT Pass Program, which allows non-ticketed individuals to "spend more time with their friends and family or shop and dine at the airport." Applications can be made up to seven days in advance, or on the day of your visit if space is available. Passes are received via email and are valid until 9 pm on the day of your visit.
Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program
Through this program, non-ticketed visitors can explore Terminal C at Orlando International Airport. Visitors must have their pass accessible digitally, as printed versions are not allowed, and no hand-carried luggage is permitted. This pass cannot be used to meet individuals arriving from international destinations, as they will need to clear customs first.
PHL Wingmate Pass
The PHL Wingmate Pass is a free program at Philadelphia Airport that allows non-ticketed visitors to pass through security and meet their loved ones at the gate, explore the terminal, or enjoy the airport's amenities. Registration can be completed online by following the provided instructions.
DTW Destination Pass
To enrol in the DTW Destination Pass program at Detroit Metropolitan Airport, you will need to apply in person at the kiosks found on the Departures Level in the McNamara and Evans terminals. The pass can then be used on the same day from 5 am until 9 pm.
TUL Visitor Pass
Tulsa International Airport in Oklahoma offers the TUL Visitor Pass, which can be applied for online up to seven days in advance or on the day of your visit. Non-ticketed visitors cannot bring any hand-carried luggage and can only enter at the approved start time and for the approved terminal.
LAN Visitor Pass
Capital Region International Airport in Lansing, Michigan, offers the LAN Visitor Pass Program, which 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 am and 5 pm (or until the TSA checkpoint closes).
OC AirPASS
John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana, California, offers the OC AirPASS program, which allows non-ticketed visitors to access the terminal beyond security.
PSP Stay & Play Pass
Palm Springs International Airport issues the PSP Stay & Play Pass, which can be applied for on the same day or in advance. Approved visitors can enjoy shops and open-air concourses after standard TSA screening.
Please note that each airport has its own specific rules and regulations regarding visitor passes, and it is important to carefully review and follow the guidelines provided by the individual airport.
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Passes are available for family members of arriving and departing military service members
In 2004, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) issued a security directive that allows airlines to issue a special access pass for family members of military service members. This pass allows them to accompany the service member through airport security checkpoints or meet them at the arrival gate. The TSA's security directive, known as TSA Security Directive 1544-01-10w (Access to Sterile Concourse for Non-traveling Individuals), ensures that military passenger family members can obtain a pass to escort the service member.
To obtain this pass, family members escorting the service member to the departure gate should process through the ticket line when the service member checks in. The airline will provide the necessary special access passes, and the group will go through the security station together. It is important to note that not all airports and airlines can provide these special access passes due to local security situations. Therefore, it is recommended that the travelling service member informs the ticket agent during check-in that their family members will be requesting the special passes at the arrival destination.
When family members want to meet their service member at the arrival gate, they should first check if the airport has a USO Office, as the USO works with the TSA and airlines to secure these passes. If there is no USO Office, family members should proceed to the ticket counter of the military member's airline and request the passes. To obtain the pass, individuals must present valid identification and go through standard TSA security screening procedures.
It is worth noting that some airports have specific programs and requirements for non-travellers to access post-security areas. For example, San Antonio International Airport offers the SAT Pass Program, which allows non-ticketed individuals to access the airport's amenities and spend time with their loved ones. Similarly, the PHL Wingmate Pass program in Philadelphia allows up to 100 non-ticketed visitors per day to accompany travellers to their gates or greet them upon arrival. Other airports with similar programs include Orlando International Airport, Detroit Metropolitan Airport, Tulsa International Airport, and Capital Region International Airport in Lansing, Michigan. These programs typically require applications in advance, valid identification, and adherence to specific time slots and terminals.
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Frequently asked questions
Escort passes allow family members to take their minor children, grandchildren, and relatives with mobility issues or disabilities to departure gates. These passes are issued by the airline, so you will need to check with them.
Escort passes are never issued for people meeting passengers on incoming international flights in the US, due to customs and immigration regulations.
Family members of US military service members who are being deployed or have been deployed can receive passes to enter the secure area of the airport.
