Tampa International to Privatize Security Operations and Equipment by 2027

Tampa International Airport will switch to a private contractor to run security staff and maintain screening equipment starting in May 2027, under TSA’s Gold+ program. This expands the earlier Screening Partnership Program by privatizing both personnel and technology, with the contractor funding and maintaining equipment while the TSA continues audits. The change aims to ensure continuous security even during potential government shutdowns and funding gaps, though critics argue full-year funding could achieve similar resilience without privatization amid ongoing budget debates and proposed TSA job cuts.