LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — People without plane tickets can now go past security to the gate at Harry Reid International Airport for the first time since 9/11.
The new program, called “Gateside by TSA PreCheck,” lets TSA PreCheck members greet loved ones, send them off, or visit restaurants and shops beyond the security checkpoint.
What is the program?
TSA spokesperson Jessica Mayle said the agency has spent the past year looking at ways to enhance the customer experience.
It has been nearly 25 years since the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, marked the last time people without plane tickets could travel to the airside gate.
Who can use it?
Officials confirmed the program is limited to TSA PreCheck members because of security requirements.
“We do annual background checks on you. So we know that you’re low risk and you just — you wouldn’t be able to just be a person off the street who had never told TSA anything about yourself and take advantage of this program,” Mayle said.
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How much does it cost?
TSA PreCheck costs between $76 and $85 every five years. The Gateside service is free for those who already have TSA PreCheck.
How do you use it?
Travelers must reserve their visit one to three days in advance through TSA.gov.
“So don’t just show up at the checkpoint. You do have to do a little work in advance. It’s one to three days before. So when you get pretty close to the day you know you want to go, go to TSA.gov,” Mayle said.
Officials said visitors do not need to include a reason for their visit. Capacity is based on each individual airport and the day of the request. Whether someone is visiting a loved one or trying a new restaurant will not determine priority.
Mayle said Las Vegas is an airport where people have a lot to do past the checkpoint and expect interest in the program.
Where is it available?
The program is active at 13 airports across the country, including Harry Reid International, Los Angeles International, San Diego International, and airports in Arizona.
How is this different from gate passes?
TSA officials said gate passes are issued by airlines for specific reasons. The Gateside PreCheck program does not limit the reason for a visit and allows visitors to use the TSA PreCheck line to expedite their entry instead of waiting.
What does the airport say?
Harry Reid International Airport said its partnership with TSA has allowed it to stay at the forefront of innovation and emerging security technology.
“In 2011, we were the first airport to pilot TSA PreCheck and, as you know, LAS is home to our Innovation Checkpoint, which allows us to be the first to test and evaluate new security equipment before it is deployed nationwide,” the airport said in a statement. “That partnership continues with Gateside by TSA PreCheck, which is currently being assessed here at LAS and a select number of airports across the country. We value our partnership with our federal partners and will continue working closely with them to embrace new technologies, improve the passenger experience, and, above all, ensure that we operate a safe, secure, and efficient airport.”
More information is available here.
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