Trusted travelers are getting a new perk at 13 airports nationwide, including one in Arizona.
A new pilot program by the Transportation Security Administration called Gateside by TSA PreCheck launched at 13 airports, including Mesa Gateway Airport in east Mesa.
The program, announced Sept. 2, allows PreCheck members to meet family and friends for welcomes and sendoffs, to catch up during a layover or to check out airport dining and shopping, without the need to have their own boarding pass.
"Being selected among the first 13 airports nationwide to launch Gateside by TSA PreCheck reflects thestrong partnership between Mesa Gateway Airport and the TSA; and our shared commitment to providinga customer-focused travel experience," Mesa Gateway executive
director J. Brian O'Neill said in a statement.
TSA PreCheck members wait about 10 minutes or less on average at airport security checkpoints, can leave electronics and small liquids in bags and don't have to remove belts and light jackets. Enrollment is good for five years. It typically costs between $76 and $85, but it's free in some cases.
Here's how Gateside by TSA PreCheck works.
What is Gateside by TSA PreCheck?
TSA describes Gateside as a special authorization for non-travelers who are eligible for PreCheck screening to access parts of an airport beyond the security checkpoint.
The program is the only way that non-travelers can access post-security areas of the airport using PreCheck lanes, according to TSA. Typically, non-travelers with gate passes from airlines or airport visitor programs must use regular security lanes.
People who use the Gateside authorization can use it to welcome or say goodbye to family members and friends at their gate, meet a friend on a long layover, browse airport dining and shopping outlets or greet military servicemembers returning from deployment.
Passes issued under the program are only valid for one day.
Who can use Gateside by TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck members and people who have Known Traveler Numbers can apply for passes under the program.
Children can join their parents or guardian, as long as their names are entered in the reservation using the "add visitor" option when applying.
How to apply for a Gateside pass
PreCheck members can get a Gateside pass from the TSA by following these instructions:
- Go to tsa.gov/gateside-login.
- Create or log in to your login.gov account.
- Go to the application portal in your login.gov account and enter your personal information.
- Submit your request and return to your dashboard to view your approval status.
- If approved, go to the airport and head to the TSA PreCheck lanes. Make sure you bring an acceptable form of ID, such as a Real ID or passport. Be prepared to log in to your dashboard to show the TSA officer your approval status if you have children on your reservation.
People must apply for the pass at least one day and no more than three days before their planned visits. Availability may be limited during peak travel times.
How much does Gateside by TSA PreCheck cost?
There is no extra cost to use the Gateside program beyond the cost of TSA PreCheck enrollment.
Airports with Gateside by TSA PreCheck
- Mesa Gateway Airport, Mesa, Arizona
- John Glenn Columbus International Airport, Columbus, Ohio
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, Dallas, Texas
- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, Detroit, Michigan
- Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport, Wichita, Kansas
- Indianapolis International Airport, Indianapolis, Indiana
- Harry Reid International Airport, Las Vegas, Nevada
- Los Angeles International Airport, Los Angeles, California
- Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport, Little Rock, Arkansas
- Will Rogers International Airport, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Eppley Airfield, Omaha, Nebraska
- San Diego International Airport, San Diego, California
- Salt Lake City International Airport, Salt Lake City, Utah
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Michael Salerno is an award-winning journalist who’s covered travel and tourism since 2014. His work as The Arizona Republic’s consumer travel reporter aims to help readers navigate the stresses of traveling and get the best value for their money on their vacations. He can be reached at Michael.Salerno@usatodayco.com.
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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona airport is 1 of 13 nationwide getting new TSA PreCheck perk
