Pittsburgh International to allow non-ticketed visitors access to Airside Terminal

MOON TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Pittsburgh International Airport will be the first airport in the country to allow non-ticketed visitors access to the Airside Terminal gates, shops and restaurants, officials announced Monday afternoon.

CLICK HERE FOR THINGS TO DO AT THE AIRSIDE TERMINAL

Officials made the major announcement at the airport, saying that the change will go into effect Sept. 5. The TSA pilot program will allow guests beyond the security checkpoint for shopping, dining and greeting passengers year-round from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, with the possibility of additional hours and weekend days in coming months.

"Now you'll be able to come out, make an outing of it, spend some time here an see this wonderful airport," said County Executive Rich Fitzgerald.

The announcement came after years of pressing the TSA to allow public access to Airside Terminals. The security rules changed after the September 11 attacks.

While visitors will not need a ticket, there will be no reduction in security.

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"I think that's exciting. We were just talking about that on the way in how convenient it was to be able to see your loved one off as they travel," said Cosette Grant-Overton, who was in the crowd saying goodbye to their loved ones at the airport.

The public will be able to access the Airside Terminal through the “myPITpass” program. The procedure will be as follows:

• Check in on 3rd floor ticketing level (across from Allegiant)
• Show a valid photo ID (driver's license or passport)
• Have name vetted against No Fly list and obtain stamped myPITpass
• Go through security checkpoint observing the same rules as passengers boarding flights

The passes will only be valid on the day of issuance. Ticketed passengers will receive priority and all rules for carry-on luggage will apply to those with a myPITpass.

Officials said security is and always will be the airport's main priority.

Congressman Tim Murphy, Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald and Allegheny County Airport Authority CEO Christina Cassotis were in attendance for the announcement.

The Allegheny County Airport Authority manages Pittsburgh International Airport and Allegheny County Airport.

Cox Media Group