Mesa Gateway Airport Introduces Gateside Access for Non-Ticketed Visitors
In a move that marks a significant shift in airport accessibility, Mesa Gateway Airport has been chosen as one of a select group of U.S. airports to implement a new program allowing non-ticketed individuals to pass through security. Known as Gateside by TSA Precheck, this initiative invites non-travelers to explore airport amenities and meet loved ones beyond security checkpoints.
Among the first 13 airports to test this program, Gateway offers non-travelers the opportunity to access airport restaurants, shops, or simply spend more time with friends and family members before their flights. The same stringent screening and conduct standards applied to ticketed passengers are maintained for these individuals.
Gateway’s Communications Director, Ryan Smith, highlighted the unique benefits of the program. “If you had a friend that’s passing through town that you could go and you can meet them,” Smith explained. “If they’re arriving, you can surprise them at the gate, you can go and have a lunch or have a meal right before they depart. If you’ve got a family member that may need a little extra time and maybe a little extra assistance.”
Reservations for Gateside passes can be made one to three days in advance, though availability may be restricted during busy periods. The program is particularly suited to an airport like Gateway, according to Smith, because of its efficient security processes. “We rarely have any waits at our checkpoints, and so you know we’re able to provide this service without really affecting everyday passengers.”
Smith added that the airport’s size makes it an ideal testing ground for new programs before they are introduced at larger or smaller airports nationwide. “They really just want to go through all these passes and all of these steps, and really make sure that a program is going to work before rolling it out nationwide.”
-
Tempe, Gilbert, Scottsdale, and Tucson have joined 85 other plaintiffs in the Fire Apparatus Antitrust Litigation.
-
Waymo is expanding its services in metro Phoenix, adding 55 square miles to its autonomous ride-hailing service area.
-
Since July of last year, the airport has set organizational records in five major categories, including passenger activity and operating revenue.
-
Mesa is awarding funds to youth ages 15-24 for climate conservation projects through the Mesa Youth Climate Action Fund.
-
The city’s landing fee program has faced scrutiny and legal challenges, with two flight schools alleging the fees are illegal and the FAA investigating.
