# TSA Revives Pre-9/11 Airport Greeting Privileges Selected travelers can now accompany loved ones to gates without boarding passes. - **Source:** [Fast Company](https://www.fastcompany.com) - **Published:** 2026-09-07 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/fe5af2c1-ede2-4f8a-aa75-99509879c26c ## Historical Context Before 9/11, airport gates were social hubs where families could accompany travelers right to departure areas. This practice created emotional farewells and reunions, with gate areas often filled with well-wishers. The 2001 terror attacks led to immediate security overhauls, including banning non-ticketed individuals from secure zones. For 25 years, this became the new normal in aviation security worldwide. ## The New Program The Transportation Security Administration is piloting a program allowing pre-screened individuals to obtain gate passes. Applicants must pass background checks and receive special authorization. This initiative marks the first significant relaxation of post-9/11 security protocols. Currently available at 10 major US airports, the program could expand based on participation and security outcomes. ## Security Considerations TSA emphasizes this isn't a return to pre-2001 lax standards. All participants undergo rigorous vetting comparable to crew member screening. Biometric verification and temporary access badges prevent abuse. Security experts note modern surveillance tech makes controlled exceptions safer than in 2001. The program maintains all existing carry-on and passenger screening procedures. ## Industry Impact Airlines support the change as it may increase non-traveler spending at airport concessions. Airports Council International data shows 30% of pre-9/11 airport revenue came from non-flyers. The program could boost retail sales by 15-20% at participating hubs. Some carriers are considering premium greeting services as potential new revenue streams. ## Passenger Experience The change particularly benefits families with young children, elderly travelers, and military families. A 2023 survey showed 68% of travelers want gate access for emotional support during flight anxieties. Special cases like unaccompanied minors or passengers with disabilities gain significant assistance options. The program also revives airport meet-and-greet business models. ## Implementation Challenges TSA must balance accessibility with security staffing constraints. Each gate pass requires 25 minutes of agent processing time. Airports report needing 12% more security personnel to handle additional screening. Some critics worry about creating new security vulnerability points. The program's success hinges on maintaining current safety standards. ## Global Precedents Several international airports never fully eliminated gate access. Dubai allows paid gate passes through its 'Marhaba' service. Singapore's Changi offers limited gate access with advanced approval. European hubs maintain more flexible policies for rail-air connections. US adoption brings its policies closer to global norms while retaining stricter vetting. ## Cultural Significance This policy shift represents a psychological milestone in post-9/11 America. It acknowledges improved security capabilities while addressing passenger emotional needs. Aviation analysts see it as the beginning of a new era in travel experience design. The program could inspire reevaluation of other security-era restrictions if implemented successfully. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.fastcompany.com/91603274/tsa-is-bringing-back-a-part-of-air-travel-that-disappeared-after-9-11 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._