San Francisco International Airport To Allow Visitors Past Security, Goodbyes At The Gate

CBS Bay Area

April 30, 2026

San Francisco International Airport is joining an increasing number of U.S. airports in allowing visitors to go past security without booking a flight to join passengers at the gate.

On Tuesday, SFO announced the launch of the SFO Gate Explorer program, in which airport visitors without a plane ticket can apply for a pass to be permitted through the security line. Participants would be subject to the same security procedures as ticketed passengers and would need a Read ID or passport to go through security.

Applications for a Gate Explorer pass can be made on the same day of an airport visit and up to 30 days in advance, SFO said in a press release.

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