The Transportation Security Administration is launching TSA Gold+, a program allowing airports to partner with private security firms for screening duties. The initiative aims to increase capacity and innovation, though critics raise concerns about training, accountability, and potential impacts from federal budget issues.
The TSA Gold+ initiative represents a significant shift towards privatizing airport security, potentially impacting traveler experience, federal budget dependencies, and the standardization of security protocols. Critics' concerns about accountability and technology control highlight potential risks to national security and worker rights.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has launched a new initiative called TSA Gold+ that aims to increase the privatization of airport security screening through public-private partnerships. The program allows airports to opt into arrangements where private security firms handle screening duties, with the goal of tailoring operations to specific airport needs while adhering to federal security standards.
According to the TSA, TSA Gold+ is designed to unlock innovation, expand screening capacity, and improve the customer experience, particularly in light of rising travel volumes and evolving threats. A key aspect highlighted by the program's website is that security operations at these airports may be insulated from lengthy federal budget cycles and potential government shutdowns, a concern that has previously impacted TSA officers working without pay.
This initiative builds upon the TSA's existing Screening Partnership Program (SPP), which already utilizes private firms at 20 airports, including San Francisco International Airport and Kansas City International Airport. Companies like VMD Corp., which provides security services at several airports, have indicated they are exploring continued partnerships under the new TSA Gold+ framework, noting their adherence to stringent security and wait time requirements.
However, the TSA Gold+ program has drawn criticism from labor unions. Everett Kelley, president of the AFGE, which represents TSA workers, expressed concerns that contracted security services may lack the standardized training and public accountability provided by federal TSA officers. Kelley also disputed the notion that private firms would be immune to government shutdowns, stating they are funded by the same appropriations as federal TSA officers.
Further scrutiny surrounds the TSA Gold+ program's provision for private vendors to supply their own screening equipment and technology, a departure from the SPP where the TSA provides the equipment. Kelley described this as "troubling," suggesting it would cede direct operational control of sensitive aviation security technology to private entities. As of Friday, the TSA had not provided further details or indicated the level of interest from airports in joining the TSA Gold+ program.