The Transportation Security Administration announced a new program Wednesday, May 21, called “Gold+” that’s designed to expand the use of private security screeners at airports across the country. Right now, 20 U.S. airports use private companies instead of federal TSA workers to screen passengers. The Gold+ initiative is an update to the existing Screening Partnership Program — and it could push that number higher.
Details on which airports might opt in haven’t been released. Nashville International Airport and other Tennessee airports currently rely on federal TSA officers at checkpoints, and it isn’t clear whether any will apply for Gold+ status.
The Screening Partnership Program has been around for years, letting airports petition to swap out federal screeners for contractors who still operate under TSA oversight and standards. Gold+ appears to be the agency’s attempt to make that option more attractive, though the TSA hasn’t spelled out what specific changes or incentives the rebrand carries.
Private screening at airports has drawn both supporters and critics in Congress. Some lawmakers argue contractors can be more efficient and responsive; others worry about accountability when security duties shift away from federal employees. That tension hasn’t gone anywhere.
What airports would need to do to qualify for Gold+ — and whether the program changes funding, staffing ratios, or performance benchmarks — remains unclear. The TSA hasn’t set a deadline for applications.
NPR reported on the TSA's Gold+ program announcement. Read the original report.
