Tampa, Charleston Airports Adopt Private Security; Des Moines Considers TSA Gold+ Amid Union Criticism
Two US airports are transitioning to private security screening under the TSA Gold+ programme, with a third considering it. This move, aimed at operational resilience, faces opposition from a major union.
Airports Embrace Private Screening
Tampa International Airport in Florida and Charleston International Airport in South Carolina are adopting private security screening for passengers, utilising the new TSA Gold+ programme. Des Moines International Airport in Iowa is also evaluating participation. This development, confirmed by the airports to AirlineGeeks on Thursday, 23 July 2026, marks a shift from the traditional federal model of security operations. The TSA Gold+ initiative, launched in May 2026, permits airports to engage private contractors for screening duties, while maintaining federal oversight and requiring adherence to TSA standards for staff and equipment.
Operational Resilience and Modernisation Cited
The airports cite enhanced operational resilience and flexibility as key drivers for joining the Gold+ programme. Tampa International stated its decision reflects a strong commitment to modernisation and reducing disruption risks from federal funding lapses or government shutdowns. Charleston International highlighted the elimination of uncertainty from past government closures and the ability to provide workers with advanced screening technology. Both airports indicated that current TSA officers would have opportunities to transition to the private contractors with comparable pay and benefits.
Union Expresses Strong Opposition
The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), representing approximately 47,000 TSA officers, publicly denounced TSA Gold+ on Tuesday, 21 July 2026, following notification of the airports' potential involvement. AFGE National President Everett Kelley argued that privatisation risks reversing security advancements made since the 2001 September 11 attacks and the 1988 Lockerbie bombing. The union views Gold+ as part of a broader Trump administration objective to privatise aviation security, referencing a 2027 budget proposal that would eliminate thousands of TSA positions.
Implications for Travel Industry
For the travel industry, this move by US airports could reshape aviation security employment and operational models. While proponents cite stability and technological advancement, the union's strong opposition suggests potential labour disputes and public debate over security efficacy. Travellers at Tampa and Charleston airports will eventually interact with privately employed security staff, though federal standards will remain. Des Moines' final decision, expected after further evaluation and coordination with the TSA as its new terminal opens in 2027, will be significant.
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