TSA Launches Gold+ Program to Expand Private Airport Security Screening

The longest U.S. government shutdown lasted 43 days in 2025, surpassing the previous record of 35 days during the 2018-19 shutdown, according to the National Association of Development Organizations.

During government shutdowns, many nonessential federal employees are furloughed, while essential employees continue working without pay until funding is restored. During the most recent shutdown, airports across the country experienced staffing shortages, flight delays and cancellations as Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers and air traffic controllers worked without pay.

As airports explore new approaches to security screening, several are transitioning to TSA Gold+, a voluntary program that expands the use of private security contractors under TSA oversight. According to participating airports and TSA, the program is intended to reduce disruptions associated with federal funding lapses while allowing airports greater flexibility to invest in new screening technology and improve the passenger experience.

Tampa International Airport , Charleston International Airport and Des Moines International Airport are the first airports selected to participate in TSA Gold+.

About 20 U.S. airports currently use private security screeners through TSA's existing Screening Partnership Program, including San Francisco International Airport, Kansas City International Airport and Sarasota Bradenton International Airport.

TSA Gold+ builds on the existing partnership model while providing participating airports with additional flexibility, according to Tampa International Airport

"The shift to privatization not only reduces disruption risks caused by lapses in federal appropriations or government shutdowns but also allows greater flexibility to explore new screening checkpoint technology to enhance the customer experience," TPA said on its website.

TPA said screening operations under TSA Gold+ will continue to meet the requirements of the Aviation and Transportation Security Act, with security officers trained and certified to the same federal standards as TSA personnel.

TSA describes Gold+ as "the future of aviation security." The agency said participation is voluntary, and airports that opt into the program will work with TSA and private-sector vendors to develop screening solutions that leverage private-sector investment.

"Opting into TSA Gold+ lets airports and airlines quickly deploy advanced security technology, improve customer experience and unlock new revenue opportunities — all without lengthy federal budget cycles. Industry partners can manage equipment and introduce innovations, while travelers enjoy a smooth, predictable and bespoke experience," TSA said on its website.

According to TSA, Gold+ will continue to operate under federal oversight while allowing participating airports and private partners greater flexibility to manage and invest in screening technology.

Not everyone supports the transition.

The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), which represents TSA employees, said the program could compromise aviation security and threaten federal jobs.

"Make no mistake – this is a major departure and step backwards from the aviation screening security system that Congress created in the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in 2001 and the deadly bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Scotland in 1988," AFGE National President Everett Kelley said in a news release. "Changes of this magnitude should not be made behind closed doors without the input of Congress, the flying public, the local airport authorities, and TSA employees themselves."

AFGE also said the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget would eliminate approximately 8,400 TSA positions.

Des Moines International Airport said adopting TSA Gold+ aligns with the opening of its new terminal next year and supports its long-term travel goals. Charleston International Airport has also announced plans to participate in the program under TSA oversight.