U.S.-based airports recently hit a milestone of sorts. Two more airports are now allowing unticketed people through TSA security, which brings the grand total to 20 airports. That’s an all-time high since security measures went into place post-9/11.
We’ve come to a point in time where some of our readers might not even remember the pre-9/11 days when just about anyone was able to go all the way to the gate at U.S. airports. Didn’t matter if they went there to drop someone off, to pick them up, or maybe even get some shopping and dining in, either. Back then, security wasn’t nearly what it is nowadays and as long as you went through the metal detector without issues, you were allowed to go airside, whether you had a ticket or not.
Of course, 9/11 ended all of that.
Fast forward a decade and change, and in the years before COVID, a small handful of airports were experimenting with allowing non-flyers to go to the gates, provided they were vetted by TSA beforehand.
And then, of course, Covid ended all of that.
But life eventually went back to relative normal, and most of the airports that had introduced “Visitor Pass” programs reinstated them. Well, except for Pittsburgh and Tampa – we’re still waiting for this. Sigh.
Airports Currently Offering Programs
Anyway, besides the ones who brought their Visitor Pass programs back, there have also been some airports that have started programs since the pandemic. They include:
- Akron-Canton Airport (CAK): CAK Guest Pass
- Bishop International Airport (FNT): FNT Visitor Pass
- Capital Region International Airport (LAN): LAN Visitor Pass
- Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW): DTW Destination Pass
- John Wayne Airport (SNA): OC AirPASS
- Kansas City International Airport (MCI): MCI Guest Pass
- Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT): Visitor’s Pass
- Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY): MSY Guest Pass
- Missoula Montana Airport (MSO): MSO Pass
- Nashville International Airport (BNA): BNA Passport
- Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA): XNA Guest Pass
- Ontario International Airport (ONT): ONT+ Visitor Pass
- Palm Springs International Airport (PSP): PSP Stay & Play Pass
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): PHL Wingmate Guest Pass
- San Antonio International Airport (SAT): SAT Pass
- Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA): Visitor Pass
- Tri-Cities Airport (PSC): PSC Pass
- Tulsa International Airport (TUL): TUL Visitor Pass
Orlando International Airport also had such a program, called Experience MCO. I gave it a try a few months after its inauguration and it worked just fine. Unfortunately, MCO decided to put the program on hiatus earlier this year, so that was the end of that (at least for now).
Two More Join the List
Happily, I recently discovered two new airports that have begun their own versions of visitor pass programs:
Eastern Iowa Airport: CID Visitor Pass
From everything I can see, CID began their version of a visitor pass without much fanfare. But that doesn’t mean it’s not any less appreciated.
Like similar programs, you must apply for the pass ahead of time, although CID also allows the option of same-day applications, as well. More pertinent information:
- Printed CID Visitor Passes are accepted.
- CID visitors are subject to the same security regulations as passengers boarding an aircraft and must comply with TSA’s screening procedures, to include not bringing items prohibited by TSA and complying with the 3-1-1 Liquids Rules.
- At this time, expedited screening and trusted traveler programs, such as the TSA PreCheck and CLEAR programs, cannot be used with the CID Visitor Pass.
- CID Visitor Pass availability is limited, granted on a first-come, first-served basis, with all access subject to TSA approval.
- The CID Visitor Pass is a permanent program. In response to exigent circumstances or operational needs, the Eastern Iowa Airport reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to cancel the program, cancel approved CID Visitor Passes, or modify program rules at any time without prior notice.
- Minors ARE allowed, but must be accompanied by an adult with proper ID and application for the program.
- The program ends at 9pm each evening.
Cleveland Hopkins International Airport: The Hopkins Hangout
I’ll give CLE credit – their new visitors pass program, which was introduced last month, has a very fun name ;-).
From their website:
Accompany a friend to their gate, greet a family member upon their return home, or simply discover all that CLE has to offer, from shops and restaurants to unique exhibits and amenities! With the Hopkins Hangout Pass, non-ticketed guests can access the airside of Cleveland Hopkins International Airport with ease.
You may apply for a Hopkins Hangout Pass up to seven (7) days before, but no later than one (1) day prior to your requested visit date. Once approved, you may use your Pass to gain access to the secure side of the airport between 7 AM and 10 PM on the day of your scheduled visit.
They even have a video about it:
The Total Reaches 20
And with these two, we’re up to 20 airports that allow non-flyers onto the airside of their respective properties. Whether it’s to drop off or meet a loved one, to go planespotting, or take part in shopping and dining (can never have enough Hudson News, right?), they’re a welcome addition.
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