3 airports to join new 'TSA Gold+' program: What does that mean for travelers? - The Points Guy

What the report says

The Points Guy reports that three U.S. airports — Tampa International Airport, Charleston International Airport in South Carolina and Des Moines International Airport in Iowa — are preparing to join TSA Gold+, a new Department of Homeland Security program that allows airports to use private contractors to run passenger security checkpoints. The program was launched earlier in 2026 under the Trump administration and is voluntary for airports.

Under the arrangement described by The Points Guy, third-party companies would manage checkpoint operations, screening staff and screening equipment, while the Transportation Security Administration would continue to set and enforce federal security standards. The report says travelers may not see major immediate changes at checkpoints, with existing rules such as liquids restrictions expected to remain in place.

Supporters, including TSA and participating airport officials, say the model could help airports deploy newer screening technology, improve checkpoint flow and avoid some disruption during federal government shutdowns, because contractor screeners would not be unpaid federal employees. The Points Guy notes that some airports already use private screeners through TSA’s Screening Partnership Program, including larger airports such as San Francisco and Kansas City.

The proposal is drawing criticism from the union representing TSA workers and some lawmakers, who warn that broader privatization could weaken security or create pressure to reduce costs. TSA officials cited in the report say the agency would still certify technology, keep some federal personnel on site and be able to end contracts if standards are not met. The broader impact on passengers will depend on how widely airports adopt the program.