San Diego International Airport Opens Secure Side to Public with New SAN Pass
San Diego International Airport now allows local residents to go through security and access its terminal gates without a flight ticket. The new SAN Pass program, launched by the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority, lets the public enter post-security areas to accompany travelers, greet arriving family, or visit shops and restaurants.
The free pass can be requested online up to seven days in advance. Availability is limited and operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) providing final approval. Applicants must provide their full legal name, date of birth, and gender exactly as it appears on a government-issued photo ID. Approved individuals receive a digital pass via email.
Upon arrival, SAN Pass holders must use the standard security checkpoint. They need to present their approved photo ID and digital pass to TSA officers and undergo the same full security screening as regular passengers, including rules for liquids and restricted items. Expedited screening through TSA PreCheck or CLEAR is not available for this access. The pass is intended solely for non-travelers, and any accompanying minors must have their own pass, with a limit of three children per adult.
The program aims to make the airport a more accessible destination while maintaining all security protocols. With the SAN Pass, San Diego joins a small group of airports worldwide opening their secure terminals to the public.
