TSA to rethink airport terminal restrictions

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Airside retailers would be among the beneficiaries of a proposal to reinstate well-wishers' admittance beyond security at US airports

The US Transport Security Administration (TSA) is reconsidering access restrictions to airport terminals to allow non-ticket holders airside. Pittsburgh International airport is hoping to be the first test case to relax restrictions introduced after September 11 2001 on letting family and friends accompany passengers to their gates. The TSA is reviewing the airport's proposal and could implement the new rules by this summer if the Department of Homeland Security gives approval.

According to the Baltimore Sun, the rethink has been driven by pressure from some lawmakers, airport authorities and retail companies which are distressed that recent security measures have stilted plans to grow their airport retail offerings.

However, concerns have been raised about the rules creating longer lines at checkpoints and about the thoroughness of TSA screeners to stop would-be terrorists.