A new TSA pilot program called Gateside by TSA PreCheck is bringing something back a lot of travelers never thought they’d see again: walking non-flying loved ones all the way to the airport gate. A TikTok from @lisaremillard explaining the program quickly went viral, and the comment section couldn’t agree on whether it’s a great idea or a security risk.
The rules are simple enough. You already need TSA PreCheck, you apply for gate access one to three days before the visit, and on the day of, you show your ID and approval status at the PreCheck lane instead of a boarding pass. It’s free for PreCheck holders, kids can accompany approved adults, and 13 airports are participating so far with more being added in phases. Gate access for non-ticketed visitors ended after the September 11 attacks, which is why this one is hitting people right in the nostalgia.
Reactions online are split, as expected. Some people are ready to relive the pre-9/11 airport goodbye. Others are asking real questions about airport crowding and whether it’s worth the security trade-off.
So we want to know: would you sign up for gate access, or does the whole idea make you nervous? Tell us in the comments.
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Local Lawton
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