TSA Gold+

Requirement

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Gold+ initiative aims to modernize aviation security at U.S. airports by integrating screening workforce, technology, and maintenance under outcome-based, performance-driven contracts. Gold+ expands upon the Screening Partnership Program (SPP) to deliver a comprehensive, turnkey solution—providing skilled screeners and advanced security technology, all overseen by TSA. Participation in Gold+ is voluntary; airports may apply to join and can opt out before contract award or return to federal screening after participation. Due to this flexibility, the number and timing of participating airports are variable. Transitioning airports require a tailored, phased approach to ensure operational continuity and workforce stability. Contractors may operate and maintain TSA-owned equipment during transition, ensuring interoperability until vendor-owned solutions are deployed. Gold+ contracts are funded at or below the federal cost baseline. Contractors must deliver integrated screening services, technology, and maintenance within these cost constraints, meeting all TSA statutory requirements, including security standards and compensation parity. The contract screening workforce must adhere to the same regulations, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and training as federal screeners, under the oversight of the airport’s Federal Security Director. Gold+ contracts are governed by outcome-based metrics for security, efficiency, and customer service, with incentives and disincentives to drive continuous improvement. This model enables greater agility, scalability, and modernization, allowing solutions to be tailored to each airport’s needs and supporting TSA’s broader modernization strategy.