T.S.A.’s Move to Privatize Airport Security

The Transportation Security Administration (T.S.A.) is shifting its strategy by increasing the use of private security in U.S. airports. This change comes after recent government shutdowns that affected T.S.A. operations.

During the last shutdown, there were significant delays at airports like Hartsfield-Jackson in Atlanta. In response, the Atlanta City Council started examining the potential of a private screening approach. According to industry experts, this marks a significant change for the T.S.A.

The shutdowns left T.S.A. agents without pay, prompting long wait times. This situation drove the push to expand the Screening Partnership Program, a move that involves private contractors at security checkpoints. The T.S.A. is also beginning a new initiative called Gold+, which is a voluntary public-private screening model.

Currently, twenty airports participate in the Screening Partnership Program, including San Francisco International. During the shutdown, airports like Houston’s Hobby, which relied solely on T.S.A., saw lines stretch outside terminals. Meanwhile, non-T.S.A. airports experienced substantially shorter wait times.

The T.S.A.’s proposed budget outlines a plan to spend an additional $477 million to help smaller airports join the Screening Partnership Program. This budget could lead to a reduction of over 4,300 of its around 50,000 agents. The agency is also allowing private contractors to manage checkpoint screening equipment.

In March, when the last shutdown occurred, San Francisco International Airport experienced minimal lines. T.S.A.’s Gold+ initiative was announced last week through an internal email, emphasizing collaboration with the private sector. The deployment of Gold+ is expected to take between seven and 11 months.