Tampa International Airport bails out of privatization talks

Officials at Tampa International Airport have abandoned plans to adopt a controversial program that would put passenger security screenings into the hands of a private company.

Under the auspices of the Department of Homeland Security, the Transportation Security Administration had proposed TSA Gold+, in which the federal organization would oversee, but not operate, airport security checkpoints.

“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,” Tampa officials said in a prepared statement today.

The objective, TSA announced in July, was primarily pre-emptive: “The change to privatization not only reduces disruption risks caused by lapses in federal appropriations or government shutdowns,” Tampa International (TPA) spokesman airport spokesman Beau Zimmer said, “but also allows greater flexibility in exploring new screening checkpoint infrastructure and technology to enhance the customer experience.”

In early August, the union representing TSA employees filed suit in federal court, alleging TSA Gold+ was being launched in secrecy. The union questioned the program’s timing and rationale.

U.S. Representative Kathy Castor expressed support for the American Federation of Government Employees in a letter to TPA officials: “While modern screening technology is important, Congress already has provided TSA with increased funding to deploy these advancements,” she wrote.

“Private contractors may cut corners on training, wages and benefits, leading to fatigue and reduced vigilance. Unlike federal officers, whose mission is public safety, contractors’ financial incentives may conflict with the imperative to protect lives.”

As part of the prepared statement, TPA CEO Michael Stephens stressed that his airport simply wanted to “learn more” about TSA Gold+.

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