What to do when the TSA PreCheck lane is closed.
Read today's edition of Gate Access • March 31st, 2025
Happy Monday. With all the recent talk about “abolishing TSA,” I’ve been digging into what that could mean for TSA PreCheck members. With over 20 million travelers enrolled, it’s a valid concern—and the truth is, no one really knows. The current stance is more of a “we’ll cross that bridge when we get there” situation.
In today’s newsletter, I’m breaking down exactly what to do if your airport doesn’t have a dedicated TSA PreCheck lane or if it’s closed for the day (yes, those lanes open and close on a schedule, and it varies by airport).
🔒 Paid readers get even more valuable advice in today’s extended edition—small tips that can make a big difference next time you’re in line. If you haven’t upgraded yet, now’s a perfect time to start April off with something that actually makes your travel easier.
—Caleb Harmon-Marshall (Harmony)/ Editor & Founder
What to Do When the TSA PreCheck Lane Is Closed
So you’ve made it to security, only to find the TSA PreCheck lane is closed—or worse, doesn’t even exist at that airport. Don’t worry—your PreCheck benefits don’t vanish. Here’s what usually happens:
✅ Officers will verify your PreCheck status on your boarding pass and allow you to use the standard lane—with some PreCheck perks still honored.
🧳 You may be allowed to keep your laptop and liquids in your bag—but this can vary by airport and TSA officer discretion.
👟 You’ll typically keep your shoes on, and any light jackets or belts can stay put too.
🚶 You’ll likely walk through a metal detector instead of the full-body scanner used for standard screenings.
While it’s not quite the smooth PreCheck experience you’re used to, it still saves you time and hassle—more key details are in the extended version of Gate Access below.
On The Radar
👉 United Airlines has received FAA approval to install Starlink high-speed satellite internet on its Embraer 175 aircraft, with the first commercial flight expected in May. The airline plans to outfit its entire fleet of over 300 two-cabin regional jets by the end of 2025, with around 40 installations each month.
The system, currently in beta testing, promises faster, more reliable service and is lighter and easier to maintain than traditional equipment.
Starlink Wi-Fi—offering speeds up to 250 Mbps, or 50 times faster than current regional options—will be free for all MileagePlus members, making streaming, gaming, and online shopping available on more United flights.
Stories You May Have Missed Last Week
What’s in Today’s Extended Version 🫣
More Key Details for What to Do When the TSA PreCheck Lane Is Closed
What you should always request from a TSA officer when in this situation. (Most travelers skip this step and end up having to remove their shoes.)
A tool to see TSA PreCheck times at every participating airport
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