Same for me last year at LAX. Actually what happened was one of the UA reps (maybe a service director) recognized me from my then-regular routine taking the redeye to IAD. One night I just happened to be dropping off a friend to catch the same flight. After helping get the bags checked, I show my friend to security and say adios. Coming back downstairs I saw the rep again and she jokingly says "change you mind?" I explained I was just seeing off a friend this time. She told me I should have asked for a gate pass so I could visit a little longer with my friend before the flight. I'm like "really?" She said, "sure, as long as you have your ID". Good to know I guess, but truth be told, I'm glad it worked out as it did... I was able to get over to the In-N-Out Burger that much quicker (why do you think I agreed to take her at all?).