The national expansion plan for a program that allows individuals without a flight ticket to enter airport boarding gates has been temporarily suspended.
Fox News reported on the 19th that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has put on hold the nationwide rollout of the TSA PreCheck program, officially known as ‘Gateside by TSA PreCheck,’ which allows non-ticketed visitors to enter airport secure areas.
Initially, the program was scheduled to expand to 314 airports nationwide starting October 2. However, the TSA stated that it is currently being operated on a trial basis at only 13 airports, including Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
The TSA did not disclose the reasons behind the halted national expansion or a timeline for future implementation. A TSA spokesperson explained, ‘We are currently evaluating the level of user participation and its impact on operations, while reviewing whether we can provide new benefits to PreCheck members while maintaining security standards.’
This program permits TSA PreCheck members to enter airport secure areas without needing a flight ticket. With prior approval, travelers can bid farewell to departing family members and friends right at the boarding gate or welcome arriving passengers directly at the gate. Visitors can also patronize restaurants and shops located past the security checkpoints.
Launched initially in September, the program has been operating at airports including LAX, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, Detroit Metropolitan Airport, and Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas.
Eligibility for the program is restricted to TSA PreCheck members who possess a valid Known Traveler Number. Applications must be submitted one to three days prior to the planned visit, and even with approval, identity verification and security screening remain mandatory.
Meanwhile, prior to the September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001, family members and acquaintances without airline tickets were permitted to access boarding gates in the United States. However, access was restricted as security regulations were reinforced following the attacks.
