The 4 US Airports You Can Get Through Security Without A Ticket

by Chris Dong

Three airports are now accessible post-security, even without a ticket. Airports want to stimulate experiences (read: increase airport revenue) beyond security through shopping and dining. What better way to do that than greeting friends and family or bidding them farewell before their journey? Airports that are interested have to submit a formal request with the TSA.

Detroit has announced an indefinite extension to their “DTW Destination Pass program to allow access to non-ticketed individuals post-security. Originally, this was a trial scheduled to end on January 5, 2020.

The process does require a few steps but is a great step forward if you want to do some bid adieu to loved ones, or just planespot or people watch.

How To Get A DTW Destination Pass

  • Apply for a DTW Destination Pass at least the day prior to your visit
  • If approved, head to the McNamara Terminal Baggage Claim on the domestic arrivals level, between Carousels #2 and #3. Look for the “DTW Destination Pass” sign on the back wall.
  • Present a valid U.S. government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or passport)
  • You’re subject to the same security screening regulations as passengers boarding a plane

Restrictions On The DTW Destination Pass

  • Valid only 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday at both the McNamara and North terminal
  • Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
  • During peak times, issued passes may be suspended
  • Limited to 75 people per day

The Other Airports That Allow You To Clear Security Without A Ticket

Pittsburgh’s airport first launched the post-security access movement with the “myPIT Pass” program in August 2017. That PIT program operates Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Tampa’s airport introduced its TPA All Access Pass just this past April 2019. Non-ticketed guests must apply at least 24 hours in advance and can visit one of four airside areas of the airport only on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. There is a limit of 25 people per airside.

Finally, back in 2018, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport tested a gate-pass program for a few weeks. The good news is that as of December 2019, “SEA Visitor Pass” is now a permanent program with no expected end date. However, SEA Airport notes that they have “the right to cancel the program or modify program rules at any time without prior notice.”

This program allows entrance to the post-security side of the airport between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. seven days a week. The last entrance is at 9:00 p.m.

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1 comment

Tony January 5, 2020 - 2:32 pm

MSY lets you as well.

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