TSA Gold Plus expands private security to three U.S. airports

The TSA’s Gold Plus program lets airports voluntarily outsource security checkpoints and screening technology to private contractors while maintaining federal standards and oversight. The initial participants are Tampa International, Charleston International, and Des Moines International; more airports have shown interest. The aim is faster, more resilient screening and less disruption during government shutdowns, with travelers likely seeing little change in day-to-day screening rules. Critics, including the AFGE union, warn privatization could raise costs or compromise security, though TSA would certify tech and keep some federal staff on site. Some airports already use private screeners under the Screening Partnership Program, and Gold Plus would expand that model.