TSA Privatization Program Launches at Tampa, Charleston, Des Moines Airports

The Transportation Security Administration announced a new private screening model, called TSA Gold+, to be implemented in 2027 at Tampa International Airport, Charleston International Airport and Des Moines International Airport. Under the program, private contractors will control passenger screening and the screening technology while the TSA retains regulatory oversight.

The American Federation of Government Employees, representing about 47,000 transportation‑security officers at 400 U.S. airports, opposes the plan, calling it “a major departure and step backwards from the aviation screening security system” created after the September 11 attacks. Union president Everett Kelley warned that such changes could jeopardize public safety. Airport officials argue the shift will modernize operations, reduce disruption risk from government shutdowns, and provide faster access to new checkpoint technology; Beau Zimmer said it “reflects the Airport’s strong commitment to modernization, innovation, and operational resilience in aviation security.”

The Trump administration’s FY2027 budget also proposes cutting 8,400 TSA officer positions and extending the Screening Partnership Program to roughly 220 airports, a ten‑fold increase from the current 20 that use private screeners.