TSA Quietly Scales Back PreCheck “Gateside” Program: What Travelers Need to Know
For frequent flyers, the introduction of the Gateside by TSA PreCheck program felt like a throwback to a golden era of travel. Allowing trusted travelers to bring non-flying family members or friends past security to gates, shops, and restaurants without a boarding pass offered an exciting new perk.

However, a sudden operational shift has left many travelers wondering about the program’s future.

The Short-Lived Nationwide Expansion
Initially launched as a pilot across 13 U.S. airports, the Gateside program allows approved PreCheck members to request terminal access 1 to 3 days in advance. By early October, travel tracking and industry reports revealed that the program had quietly surged to nearly 300 airports nationwide-all without a major press release or official promotional rollout from the Transportation Security Administration.

The expansion was short-lived. Just as quickly as it grew, the TSA scaled the program back down to its original 13 airports, leaving regional locations off booking portals and catching travel advisors and passengers off guard.

Why Did the TSA Roll Back Gateside?
The agency has not issued a formal, detailed public explanation for the sudden reduction. However, participating locations (such as Denver International Airport) confirmed to aviation reporters that operations were returned to the initial cohort while officials evaluate checkpoint volume, security postures, and resource allocation.

While the official TSA portal still maintains that the program will eventually roll out to more airports in the coming months, no specific timeline has been provided.

Where Can You Still Use Gateside Right Now?
If you are planning to use the benefit, you must verify that your departure or meeting hub is on the active list. As of right now, the program is strictly bookable at these 13 original airports:

Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) – Arizona

John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) – Ohio

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) – Texas

Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) – Michigan

Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) – Kansas

Indianapolis International Airport (IND) – Indiana

Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) – Nevada

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – California

Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT) – Arkansas

Will Rogers International Airport (OKC) – Oklahoma

Eppley Airfield (OMA) – Nebraska

San Diego International Airport (SAN) – California

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) – Utah

For travelers hoping to greet loved ones at the gate or enjoy terminal amenities together, it is best to check the official TSA Gateside Portal before making any travel coordination plans.

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Source and reporting details adapted from Travel Agent Central.