U. S.

In response to the recent government shutdown and its impact on TSA workers, at least three U. S. airports are considering privatizing their security and passenger screening operations. The new program, called TSA Gold+, is an expansion of the existing Screening Partnership Program and allows airports to partner with private screening contractors to carry out the security functions normally handled by TSA officers. While federal oversight remains in place, the program aims to improve operational resilience and enhance the customer experience.

Tampa International Airport in Florida and Charleston International Airport in South Carolina have confirmed their plans to participate in TSA Gold+. Tampa International Airport stated that their decision reflects their commitment to modernization, innovation, and operational resilience in aviation security. Similarly, Charleston International Airport expressed their desire to invest in their TSA officers by providing them with better tools and workplace stability. Both airports emphasized that current TSA officers will have the option to transition to the screening contractor at equivalent pay and benefits.

Des Moines International Airport in Iowa has also expressed interest in joining TSA Gold+ as they prepare to open their new terminal in 2027. The airport’s CEO, Brian Mulcahy, stated that their first priority is always the safety and security of their passengers and that the program offers the opportunity to pair TSA’s security oversight with the newest checkpoint technology available. Like Charleston, Des Moines also ensures that TSA officers will have the first opportunity to continue serving at the airport after a screening contractor is selected.

The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), which represents around 47,000 TSA officers, has denounced the TSA Gold+ program. They argue that privatization risks undoing the positive advancements in airport security made over the last several decades. AFGE also believes that the program is part of a larger effort by the Trump administration to dismantle the TSA and privatize all aviation security screening functions.

The TSA was created in 2001 after the 9/11 attacks to handle airport screening, which was previously managed by several private companies. However, the organization is now facing a proposal in the White House’s 2027 budget to eliminate 8,400 TSA positions and replace about 4,500 of them with private contractors. AFGE believes that this move will have devastating and potentially deadly consequences.

While airports continue to explore the option of privatizing their security and passenger screening operations, the TSA is still in the process of establishing requirements for the Gold+ program. The decision to participate will be made after further evaluation and coordination with the agency. It remains to be seen how the implementation of TSA Gold+ will affect airport security and the TSA workforce in the long run.