Most American passengers associate airport security with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), but federal employees have never been the only workers authorized to screen people and baggage at U.S. airports. Congress authorized airports to request private screeners when it enacted the Aviation and Transportation Security Act in 2001, provided that those contractors complied with federal standards and remained under TSA supervision. That option has gained new attention after funding disruptions exposed how closely checkpoint staffing depends on the federal budget.
During a 75-day partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)earlier this year, federal screeners continued working while airports monitored absences, wait times, and the risk of further disruptions. TSA has now introduced Gold+, an expanded public-private model that gives contractors a larger role in checkpoint operations and equipment. Tampa International Airport, Charleston International Airport, and Des Moines International Airport have opted to become its first participants, with transitions projected for 2027, according to USA Today.
Tampa, Charleston, And Des Moines Prepare For TSA Gold+ In 2027
Gold+ builds on the existing Screening Partnership Program, which already uses private screening companies at 20 U.S. airports, including San Francisco International Airport and Kansas City International Airport. Under that program, contractors provide screening personnel while TSA generally procures the equipment. Gold+ allows private operators to manage both the workforce and checkpoint technology, while TSA retains federal oversight.
The projected rollout begins at Des Moines in January 2027, followed by Charleston in February and Tampa in May. CBS News reported that those dates appeared in an email TSA sent to the American Federation of Government Employees. Tampa has since confirmed that it expects full implementation by May 2027 and that the TSA plans to select its contractor by September 2026…