Tampa International Airport completes review of TSA Gold+ screening partnership program

After conducting a full evaluation of the Transportation Security Administration's private screening partnership program, TSA Gold+, Tampa International Airport has elected to continue its checkpoint screening operations with its existing federal TSA officers.

Earlier this year, the TSA approached TPA officials with the concept of TSA Gold+, a program that gives TSA oversight of a private company and workforce to conduct screening operations, rather than federal TSA officers. The Airport opted in to evaluate the TSA Gold+ program with the goal of preventing disruptions from future government shutdowns, improving access to the latest screening technology, and enhancing the passenger experience.

Opting in allowed TPA officials to learn about program details and provisions, including security, workforce, technology, financial, and legal considerations, before moving forward.

The Airport conducted an extensive review and evaluation over several months, which resulted in its decision to keep screening operations exclusively with the TSA, and not adopt the Gold+ model.

"We approached Gold+ carefully and deliberately, with a focus on our passengers, employees, airline partners, and long-term operational excellence," TPA CEO Michael Stephens said. "We are thankful to the TSA for bringing us the opportunity to learn more about a program with the potential to enhance operational resiliency and innovation, and to reach an informed decision."

"We have worked closely with our TSA team through record passenger growth, severe weather, federal funding disruptions, and peak travel periods. We value their professionalism and commitment to security and service, and look forward to continuing our strong partnership," Stephens said.