Tampa, Charleston airports to join new TSA privatized security initiative
Summary
Tampa, Charleston, and Des Moines airports will join a new TSA program called Gold+ that uses private companies for airport security screening while the TSA keeps oversight. The program aims to improve security and speed through private investment and new technology, but it has raised concerns from the union representing TSA workers about public safety and job losses.Key Facts
- The TSA Gold+ program expands the current Screening Partnership Program by allowing private contractors to handle more security tasks, including using screening technology.
- Gold+ will launch at Des Moines airport in January 2027, Charleston in February 2027, and Tampa in May 2027.
- TSA remains responsible for security standards and overall supervision under Gold+.
- The Gold+ program currently operates at 20 airports, including San Francisco International and Kansas City International.
- The union representing TSA officers (AFGE) warns the program could harm public safety and lead to fewer government TSA jobs.
- The union is concerned that the TSA is both setting security rules and checking its own work, which they believe is a conflict of interest.
- The administration’s fiscal year 2027 budget proposes cutting about 8,400 TSA workers, with roughly half replaced by private screeners.
- The Aviation and Transportation Security Act of 2001 established TSA responsibility for airport security after the 9/11 attacks.
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