TSA Adds Tampa, Charleston, Des Moines To New Privatized Security Program
The Transportation Security Administration says Tampa, Charleston and Des Moines airports have joined its new Gold+ privatized screening program, a move that shifts some checkpoint operations to private contractors.[1]
A TSA email to the American Federation of Government Employees projects Gold+ to launch in Des Moines in January 2027, Charleston in February 2027 and Tampa in May 2027.[1] Gold+ expands the Screening Partnership Program by allowing private contractors to manage screening technology while TSA retains oversight.[1]
The Screening Partnership Program let some airports replace TSA screeners with private companies under TSA supervision.[1] Gold+ goes further by opening the technology and investment side to private firms, with the agency saying new tech and private funds will expedite screening and enhance the passenger experience and security.[1]
The American Federation of Government Employees, which represents about 47,000 transportation security officers, says Gold+ threatens public safety and jobs.[1] AFGE also notes the proposed fiscal 2027 budget would cut nearly 8,400 TSA workers, including 2,462 transportation security officer positions.[1]
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📌 Key Facts
- TSA told CBS News that Tampa, Charleston and Des Moines airports have signed onto the new TSA Gold+ privatized screening program.
- Gold+ expands on the Screening Partnership Program by allowing private contractors to manage screening technology under TSA oversight.
- A TSA email to AFGE projects Gold+ to launch in Des Moines in January 2027, Charleston in February 2027, and Tampa in May 2027.
- AFGE, which represents 47,000 transportation security officers, says Gold+ threatens public safety and jobs and notes the FY 2027 budget proposes cutting nearly 8,400 TSA workers, including 2,462 TSO positions.
- TSA’s Gold+ website says private investment and new technology will expedite screening and enhance security and the passenger experience.
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