TSA is quietly testing a new airport security system that could change how you get through checkpoints forever

"The TSA announced the move in an internal memo sent to employees on May 14. According to the TSA, the program is "the future of aviation security." The site explains that the program is a "new public-private partnership aimed at modernizing aviation security at select airports across the United States" and says it will allow airports to opt-in to a "tailored security screening service unique to each airport's needs and space configuration." Those airports will work with the TSA and prospective vendors."

"While the expansion of the program is new, around 20 airports, such as San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Kansas City International Airport (MCI), already participate in the federal Screening Partnership Program (SPP), which allows them to contract with private security firms. TSA Gold+ is essentially expanding on that program's model. For travelers, most won't notice a difference at the airport, as TSA standard security rules are likely to stay the same."

"However, the shift would mark a big transition for workers. It would mean TSA becomes a regulatory role focused on oversight instead of one that is used to manage day-to-day operations. The rollout of the program comes after a challenging year for the TSA when a partial government shutdown led to 61,000 TSA employees to work without pay, long airport wait times, and many walking off the job. Advocates of the new program say that it will insulate workers from lapses in paychecks."

TSA Gold+ has been launched as a new public-private partnership to modernize aviation security at select U.S. airports. Airports can opt in to receive a tailored security screening service designed around each airport’s needs and space configuration. Participating airports work with TSA and prospective vendors to implement the screening model. Around 20 airports already participate in the federal Screening Partnership Program, which allows contracting with private security firms, and Gold+ expands that approach. Travelers may see little change because standard TSA security rules are expected to remain. The program changes the role of TSA workers by moving TSA toward regulatory oversight rather than day-to-day management. It follows a difficult period that included a partial government shutdown and unpaid work.

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