Story perspectives

Tampa Airport Moves Security to Private Contractor, Union Opposes

7/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Tampa International Airport will shift security screening to a private contractor under the TSA Gold+ program starting May 2027.
Airport officials say the change protects operations from budget cuts, enables technology upgrades, while the TSA retains authority to set standards, inspect, and enforce compliance.
The American Federation of Government Employees opposes the plan over safety risks, urges pay-protection legislation, and says the airport has offered priority hiring to 800 TSA workers.

History

Historical Context

Following the September 11, 2001 attacks, Congress enacted the Aviation and Transportation Security Act on November 19, 2001, establishing the TSA and shifting screening from airlines to the federal government. In 2005 the TSA gave US Secure a $1.5 billion contract to staff Denver International Airport with about 2,000 contractors—a model Tampa International Airport now seeks under the TSA Gold+ program, drawing opposition from the American Federation of Government Employees.

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Story summary

Tampa International Airport will shift security screening to a private contractor under the TSA Gold+ program starting May 2027.
Airport officials say the change protects operations from budget cuts, enables technology upgrades, while the TSA retains authority to set standards, inspect, and enforce compliance.
The American Federation of Government Employees opposes the plan over safety risks, urges pay-protection legislation, and says the airport has offered priority hiring to 800 TSA workers.

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