These Airports Could Replace TSA Workers With Private Security
If you're flying through a handful of U.S. airports, you may soon notice a different company operating the security checkpoint.
Three airports are joining TSA Gold+, a new program that will allow airports to use private security contractors, instead of federal TSA officers while still operating under TSA oversight.
According to the TSA, the goal is to improve flexibility, modernize screening, and enhance our experience without changing federal security standards.
Which Airports Are Joining TSA Gold+?
The first airports that are expected to participate are:
Charleston International Airport (South Carolina)
Tampa International Airport (Florida)
Des Moines International Airport (Iowa)
Each airport has said the program should provide greater flexibility, allow new technology to be introduced, and help avoid disruptions caused by federal budget issues.
Will Airport Security Change?
Not really.
According to the TSA, airport security requirements will remain the same. The federal government will continue to:
Set screening standards
Inspect operations
Oversee the private contractors running checkpoints
In other words, we’ll still go through the same security protocols we're already used to at these airports.
What’s the Difference?
The biggest change is who's performing the screening. Instead of federal Transportation Security Officers, private companies approved by the TSA will handle checkpoint operations.
The TSA says the contractors will be required to meet the same federal training and security requirements that TSA employees must meet.
The new program builds on the TSA's existing Screening Partnership Program, which already operates in about 20 airports across the country.
Not Everyone Supports the Change
The move has drawn criticism from the American Federation of Government Employees, the union representing TSA officers.
Union leaders argue that expanding private security screening could affect public safety and reduce government oversight.
Meanwhile, the TSA says federal standards will remain unchanged, and certain TSA personnel will continue to oversee operations.
What We Should Expect
For now, if we’re traveling through any of these airports, we won't notice much of a difference beyond the uniform of the person checking our IDs or screening bags.
Whether our checkpoints are staffed by federal officers or private contractors, the TSA says the same security rules, prohibited items, and screening procedures will remain in place.
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