Not Flying? These U.S. Airports Allow Visitors to Go Through Security
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Before the pandemic, a growing number of U.S. airports began allowing visitors to engage in activities that were once common in the pre-9/11 air travel era: meeting at terminal gates, seeing friends and family off, or welcoming loved ones with hugs right at the gate, regardless of their travel plans.
The initiative of permitting approved visitors without a boarding pass to access the airside area was sidelined during the pandemic. However, over the past year, this trend has been reemerging at various airports across the country, with Orlando International Airport (MCO) in Florida recently introducing its own version of an airport guest pass.
The newly launched Experience MCO Visitor Pass program allows unticketed visitors to obtain a pass for access through TSA security checkpoints. This initiative enables them to spend quality time with friends and family before departures or to greet arrivals. The MCO Visitor Pass aims to enhance access to the bars, restaurants, and retail shops in the recently opened new Terminal C, extending availability to non-travelers.
To obtain an MCO Visitor Pass, non-flying guests must complete an online application within seven days of their intended visit. They will receive an email notification regarding their approval status, allowing them to enter Terminal C on their assigned pass day between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and they must exit by 8 p.m.
For all these programs, an email verification along with a TSA-approved photo ID is required to pass through the TSA security checkpoints at participating airports and terminals. Individuals with a visitor pass must adhere to the same security screening rules as travelers and are prohibited from bringing any items banned by TSA through security. (Note that while some airports allow unticketed travelers to assist unaccompanied minors or individuals with disabilities at the gate, these visitor pass programs do not necessitate a specific reason for entry and are designed to let guests enjoy the terminal's services and amenities.)
Other U.S. airports permitting unticketed visitors to go through security
- Bishop International Airport in Flint, Michigan: The FNT Visitor Pass is available Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. All visitors, including those 17 and younger, must register and be accompanied by an adult.
- Capital Region International Airport in Lansing, Michigan: The LAN Visitor Pass provides access for up to four hours a day, available between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., limited to 25 visitors daily.
- Detroit Metropolitan Airport: This Midwest airport introduced the DTW Destination Pass in 2019.
- John Wayne Airport in Orange County, California: The OC AirPass was launched in 2021, allowing access to Terminals A, B, or C daily from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. for shopping, dining, viewing art exhibits, and greeting arrivals.
- Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport: In 2019, the MSY Guest Pass was established to allow non-flying visitors to enjoy the dining and retail options in the new $1 billion terminal, available seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Ontario International Airport in California: The ONT+ Visitor Pass program was initiated last October, requiring non-travelers to submit an online application within seven days of their visit, with email notifications for approval. The pass allows access to Terminal 2 and 4 daily.
- Palm Springs International Airport: The PSP Stay and Play Pass is available on a first-come, first-served basis, seven days a week, allowing entry to the TSA checkpoint at the designated time.
- Seattle–Tacoma International Airport: The SEA Visitor Pass program was launched in fall 2018, paused shortly after, but has recently resumed operations.
- Tampa International Airport: The TPA All Access Pass is available daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. for up to 25 visitors each day.
- Tri-Cities Airport in Pasco, Washington: Up to 10 people can book a PSC Pass each day.
- Tulsa International Airport: Non-fliers can reserve a TUL Visitor Pass up to seven days in advance, with entry permitted starting at the approved time until 9 p.m., allowing for re-entry throughout the day.
This article was initially published in November 2018 and updated on September 14, 2023, to reflect current details.
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