Full Breakdown
TSA Gold Plus: Private Contractors to Manage Security at Three U.S. Airports
7/25/2026, 8:33:53 PM
What Is TSA Gold Plus?
The Transportation Security Administration’s “Gold Plus” program, launched earlier this year by the Trump administration, lets airports voluntarily contract private firms to run security checkpoints and operate the screening equipment. The first hubs to opt in are Tampa International Airport (TPA), Charleston International Airport (CHS) in South Carolina, and Des Moines International Airport (DSM) in Iowa. Under the arrangement, the TSA retains overall responsibility for federal security standards but hands day-to-day management of personnel and technology to the private partners.
How the Program Builds on Existing Partnerships
Private screening is not new to the U.S. aviation system. At least 20 airports already employ third-party screeners through the TSA’s Screening Partnership Program, with San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Kansas City International Airport (MCI) being the largest participants. Those airports experienced relatively short lines during the recent government shutdown, which caused multi-hour delays at many federally staffed hubs. Proponents argue that Gold Plus expands this model, giving airports access to newer screening technology and reducing the risk of shutdown-related backups because private staff are not federal employees.
Official Stance and Implementation Details
The TSA says it will continue to certify all screening equipment used by private partners and will keep a contingent of TSA personnel on site to oversee operations. A Department of Homeland Security official explained that if a contractor fails to meet security standards, the agreement can be terminated.
Opposition and Concerns
The American Federation of Government Employees, representing TSA workers, warned that relying on private contractors ignores lessons from the 9/11 attacks and other airline tragedies. Democratic Representative Andy Kim expressed skepticism at a recent Capitol Hill hearing, questioning whether broader privatization would compromise safety. A senator also cautioned that private firms might prioritize profit over security, potentially cutting corners to reduce costs.
Potential Impact on Travelers
For passengers, the TSA says the familiar 3-1-1 liquids rule and overall checkpoint layout will remain unchanged, so the day-to-day experience should be largely the same. Supporters anticipate smoother flows and fewer shutdown-induced delays, while critics fear reduced oversight could introduce new vulnerabilities. As the program rolls out at the three pilot airports, its effectiveness will likely shape whether additional hubs choose to follow suit.
