A pilot program at Detroit Metropolitan Airport allowing nonticketed visitors past security has been extended indefinitely.

The DTW Destination Pass program allows non-flying guests to access the McNamara and North terminals to say goodbye to family and friends and to patronize restaurants and shops normally off limits to those without plane tickets. Rolled out in October, officials have extended the program with no end date, according to a Friday news release.

"We've received a tremendous response to the DTW Destination Pass program," Chad Newton, CEO of the Wayne County Airport Authority, said in the release. "We understand that our facility is more than just an airport — it is a place where memories are made."

Like the pilot program, those interested in participating are required to apply for a pass through the airport's website the day before their visit. They will be subject to the same TSA security measures as ticketed passengers.

Passes can be used Tuesday-Sunday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The program has averaged more than 60 applicants a day since launching, according to the airport authority. There is a limit of 75 passes issued per day.

The pilot program marked the first time since the Sept. 11 terror attacks that people were allowed past security at DTW without tickets. The new pilot program is being implemented following the TSA amending regulations last year to give airports more flexibility on allowing guests into gate areas.

Other airports around the nation, such as Pittsburgh International Airport and Tampa International Airport, have instituted similar programs.