TSA Reinstates Gate Access for Ticketless PreCheck Members at Select Airports
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is reinstating gate access for eligible TSA PreCheck members who do not have plane tickets, a practice that was largely discontinued after 9/11. The program, initially available at 13 airports including Los Angeles International Airport…
Los Angeles, CA, September 9, 2026 — The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has begun reinstating gate access for eligible members of its TSA PreCheck program who do not possess plane tickets. This initiative marks a significant shift, as the practice was largely discontinued following the September 11, 2001, attacks. The renewed program aims to allow trusted travelers without flight reservations to access secure gate areas for various purposes.
Under the reinstated policy, eligible TSA PreCheck members can proceed through security checkpoints to reach the gates. This access is intended for individuals who wish to see off friends or family, greet arriving passengers, or meet travelers who may be experiencing a layover. The program is currently being piloted at a limited number of airports, with an initial rollout encompassing 13 locations. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is among the facilities participating in this early phase.
The TSA PreCheck program is a known trusted traveler initiative that provides expedited security screening for pre-approved low-risk travelers. Historically, access to secure areas of airports was restricted to individuals with valid boarding passes. The reintroduction of gate access for ticketless PreCheck members represents a policy adjustment by the TSA, seeking to balance security measures with passenger convenience and family needs. Details regarding the full scope of airports where this program will be implemented or extended, and the specific criteria for eligibility beyond being a TSA PreCheck member, were not fully detailed in the initial announcement.
Further information regarding the operational specifics and the full list of participating airports is expected to be released as the program continues its rollout. The TSA has stated its commitment to maintaining security standards while exploring ways to enhance the travel experience for trusted travelers and their families. The contractor’s name was not provided. The fine amount was not provided. The exact timeline for full implementation or expansion of the program beyond the initial 13 airports was not provided. What happened next is yet to be determined as the program is in its early stages.
Story summarized from the original created by The Associated Press | NPR on laist.com, see more information here.
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