The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has introduced a new program called "Gateside by TSA PreCheck," allowing eligible members to access airport gates without needing a plane ticket. This initiative is available at 13 airports, including major hubs like Los Angeles International Airport, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, and Salt Lake City International Airport. The program is free but requires participants to apply online one to three days before their visit and receive approval. Once approved, individuals can use a TSA PreCheck lane with a valid form of identification to enter the secure area of the airport for one calendar day, allowing them to re-enter multiple times on the same day. The program also extends access to members of other trusted-traveler programs, such as Global Entry or NEXUS, who have a Known Traveler Number. These individuals can apply for access to the gates under the same conditions as TSA PreCheck members. The TSA announced that it plans to expand the program to additional airports in the coming months, signaling a broader rollout of the initiative. This new program brings back a practice that was common before the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. After 9/11, airport security was dramatically overhauled, and access to secure areas was restricted for people without valid travel documents. Prior to that, individuals without plane tickets could accompany travelers to the gate, often for welcoming or farewell purposes, or to enjoy airport amenities during layovers. The TSA says this initiative aims to restore some of the convenience and social aspects of air travel. It allows people to meet friends during layovers, enjoy dining and shopping near the gates, or greet loved ones at the terminal—bringing back experiences that once defined the airport experience. The program reflects the TSA’s effort to balance security with traveler convenience in modern air travel.