Gateside by TSA PreCheck is a new program that lets approved TSA PreCheck members walk through airport security and access terminal areas without a boarding pass. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) launched this pilot program on September 2, 2026, marking the first time since the 9/11 attacks that non-ticketed visitors can access secure areas at select U.S. airports.
For Omaha residents, this means you can now accompany your elderly parent to their gate, greet your college student after they land, or simply enjoy a meal at an airport restaurant without booking a flight. Eppley Airfield is one of just 13 airports nationwide selected for this initial rollout.
The program is completely free for eligible members. However, it requires advance planning—you cannot simply show up at the airport and expect to walk through security. Applications must be submitted online one to three days before your planned visit and approved in advance.
Who Qualifies for Gateside at Omaha’s Eppley Airfield?
You qualify for Gateside at Eppley Airfield if you are an active TSA PreCheck member with a valid Known Traveler Number (KTN). This includes members of other trusted traveler programs like Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI who also hold TSA PreCheck benefits.
Here is a quick breakdown of eligibility requirements:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| TSA PreCheck Status | Active membership required |
| Known Traveler Number | 9-10 digit KTN needed |
| Advance Application | 1-3 days before visit |
| Valid ID | REAL ID or other acceptable form |
| Children | Must be listed on parent/guardian’s reservation |
If you are not yet a TSA PreCheck member, enrollment typically costs $77-$85 for a five-year membership—roughly $17 per year or about $1.42 per month. Many travel credit cards reimburse this fee entirely. You can complete the enrollment process in about 10 minutes at an enrollment center, which includes fingerprinting and a background check.
For Omaha residents, the nearest enrollment center is Idemia Omaha NE-S 148th Ave Cir at 2718 S 148th Ave Cir, Omaha, NE 68144.
How to Apply for a Gateside Visitor Pass in Omaha
Applying for a Gateside pass takes about five minutes online and requires a Login.gov account. The TSA recommends creating your account before you need the pass, as account verification can take time.
Follow these steps to apply:
- Create or log into your Login.gov account if you do not already have one.
- Visit TSA.gov/gateside and select Eppley Airfield (OMA) as your airport.
- Enter your Known Traveler Number and personal details including name and date of birth.
- Submit your application between one and three days before your planned visit.
- Wait for approval and check your application status through the portal dashboard.
- Bring an acceptable form of ID—a REAL ID or passport works best—on your visit day.
A critical detail many travelers overlook: children can also visit, but they must be entered on their parent or guardian’s reservation. Do not assume your child can simply walk through with you if they are not listed on your application.
Where Can You Go Inside Eppley Airfield with a Gateside Pass?
Once approved, you can access the secure side of the terminal at Eppley Airfield through the TSA PreCheck lane. Eppley Airfield has two concourses: Concourse A (South Terminal) with gates A1-A10 and Concourse B (North Terminal) with gates B11-B20.
Your Gateside pass is valid for one calendar day, and you can re-enter multiple times on that same day. This is particularly useful if you want to:
- Walk a family member to their gate and then leave to run errands before returning to greet them
- Meet a friend during a layover without waiting outside security
- Enjoy dining and shopping at airport restaurants and stores without a flight
- Experience the terminal for those curious about the airport’s $950 million renovation project
However, there are important limitations. Availability may be limited during peak travel times—typically early mornings and around 6 AM when security lines are longest. Gateside visitors must follow the same federal and local rules as ticketed passengers, including airport code of conduct policies.
TSA PreCheck Benefits You Get with Gateside Access
Gateside access comes with all standard TSA PreCheck screening benefits. When using the PreCheck lane at Eppley Airfield, you will not need to remove:
- Shoes
- Belts
- Light jackets or outerwear
- Laptops from bags
- 3-1-1 compliant liquids from carry-on bags
These benefits can save significant time. At Omaha’s Eppley Airfield, TSA PreCheck lanes typically have wait times under 4 minutes, compared to 7 minutes or more in regular lanes. During peak periods, PreCheck wait times stay at 5-10 minutes while standard lines can stretch to 30-45 minutes.
For a parent walking their child to a gate for the first time, this means you can move through security smoothly and focus on the moment rather than the hassle.
What to Expect When Using Gateside at Eppley Airfield
Expect a straightforward process similar to a normal PreCheck experience, but with one key difference: you will present your ID and Gateside approval rather than a boarding pass. Eppley Airfield’s TSA checkpoint is located on Level 2 of the terminal.
A practical tip from frequent Omaha travelers: arrive at least 90 minutes before your planned visit if you are traveling during peak hours. The airport sees its busiest security periods around 6 AM, with wait times climbing to 27-33 minutes in standard lanes. PreCheck lanes move faster, but planning ahead ensures a smooth experience.
Another smart move: check your application status the morning of your visit. If approved, screenshot your approval confirmation and have it ready on your phone. While TSA recommends bringing a physical ID, having your digital confirmation accessible speeds things up.
One more detail worth knowing: Eppley Airfield is undergoing a major expansion expected to complete in 2028. Some terminal pathways may change during construction, so allow extra time for navigation.
Gateside Is Not for Everyone: When to Skip It
Gateside is not the right choice if you are flying yourself—you will need a boarding pass for your flight. It is also not intended for frequent airport visits; the application process requires planning at least one day ahead.
Additionally, if you do not have TSA PreCheck, this program is not available to you. TSA has stated that only members of trusted traveler programs with a Known Traveler Number can apply. If you have been on the fence about getting PreCheck, this new benefit adds another compelling reason to enroll.
The Bottom Line for Omaha Travelers
TSA Gateside PreCheck brings a long-lost convenience back to Eppley Airfield: the ability to walk through security with your loved ones without needing a boarding pass. The program is free for TSA PreCheck members, requires advance online application, and is available now at Omaha’s airport.
Key takeaways:
- Apply at TSA.gov/gateside 1-3 days before your visit
- Bring a REAL ID or passport on your visit day
- Children must be listed on your application
- PreCheck lanes at OMA average under 4 minutes
- Availability may be limited during peak hours
- Pass valid for one calendar day with re-entry allowed
For the latest program details, visit the official TSA Gateside page at TSA.gov and check Eppley Airfield’s construction updates at FlyOMA.com.
This pilot program could expand to more airports in the coming months, but for now, Omaha travelers are among the first in the nation to enjoy this benefit. Whether you are sending off a family member or greeting a returning traveler, Gateside makes the airport experience feel a little more human again.
