The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has launched TSA Gold+, a new initiative that expands private companies' role in airport security screening across the U.S. Unlike traveler-facing programs such as TSA PreCheck, Gold+ is a public-private partnership aimed at airports, allowing them to contract private firms to manage screening operations—including staffing and technology—while the TSA maintains federal oversight. The program builds on the existing Screening Partnership Program, which already allows private contractors at 20 airports, but goes further by giving private partners responsibility for equipment and new technology adoption.

Airports that join TSA Gold+ may see faster checkpoint processing and greater resilience during federal funding lapses or government shutdowns, as private contractors can continue operations without relying on federal payroll. The TSA says participating airports will face no additional costs and could benefit from quicker integration of AI and other advanced screening tools. However, no airports have yet announced plans to join the new program.

Critics, including labor unions and travel experts, have raised concerns about accountability, pay equity for screeners, and the influence of for-profit motives on security decisions. While supporters argue that the opt-in model offers flexibility and operational stability, others warn it could lead to inconsistent passenger experiences and reduced transparency in sensitive security functions.