Lois Larson
Airports can opt to replace TSA screeners with private security agencies. This is done through the Screening Partnership Program (SPP), which was instituted in 2004 by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Airports must apply to be eligible for the program, and if approved, they can hire private security agencies to conduct screenings. These agencies must follow all TSA screening policies and procedures and use TSA-approved equipment. As of 2016, 23 airports have participated in the SPP, with the most recent being Punta Gorda Airport in Florida. Proponents of privatized screening argue that it will improve the quality of service, make the screening process more efficient, and create jobs. However, critics point out that private screeners are required to follow the same security protocols and offer similar wages and benefits as federal officers, which may not lead to significant improvements.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name of the program that allows airports to get rid of TSA screeners | Screening Partnership Program (SPP) |
| Year of creation | 2004 |
| Number of airports that have participated in the program | 23 |
| Number of airports that have applied for the program | 32 |
| Number of items left behind at checkpoints each month | 90,000 to 100,000 |
| Airports that have made the switch to private security screeners | Punta Gorda Airport in Florida, San Francisco International Airport |
| Airports considering the switch to private security screeners | Seattle Tacoma International Airport |
| Improvements offered by private agencies | Faster response to issues, improved quality of service, more efficiency |
| Improvements offered by TSA | TSA PreCheck Touchless ID program for faster identity verification, no need to remove shoes during security screening |
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What You'll Learn
Employ private security agencies to conduct screening
Airports can employ private security agencies to conduct screening instead of relying on the TSA. This is made possible through the Screening Partnership Program (SPP), which was instituted in 2004 by the TSA. The SPP allows airports to contract security screening services to qualified private companies. These companies must follow all TSA screening policies, procedures, and equipment standards.
To participate in the SPP, airports and security agencies must complete applications. The application process can be lengthy, with airports waiting up to 120 days to receive a status update on their application. If approved, issuing the contract can take up to 12 months, and the transition into the program can take another four to six months. Private screening agencies will work for the TSA rather than the airport authority.
As of 2016, 23 airports have participated in the SPP, with at least 32 airports applying since its creation. Some examples of qualified private security agencies that are TSA-approved include AM-Guard, Inc., AT Systems Security, Inc., BOS Security, Inc., FirstLine Transportation Security, Inc., and Securiguard, Inc.
Supporters of the SPP, including frequent flyers, airport executives, and lawmakers, argue that private security agencies can improve the quality of service and make the screening process more efficient. They believe that private agencies are more responsive to issues and can resolve them faster. Additionally, moving towards a private security force can create jobs and ensure accountability and constant quality of service.
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Improve quality of service and make screening more efficient
The Screening Partnership Program (SPP) was instituted in 2004 by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States. The program allows airports to employ private security agencies to conduct screening instead of the TSA. Airports and security agencies must complete applications to be eligible to participate in this program. As of 2016, 23 airports have participated in the SPP.
The implementation of SPP is expected to improve the quality of service and make the screening process more efficient. Airport executives and lawmakers argue that private agencies can offer faster and better services than the TSA. They also believe that moving towards a private security/screening force is essential for ensuring accountability and constant quality of service.
To improve the quality of service and make screening more efficient, TSA has also been working on several other measures. Firstly, they have been investing in state-of-the-art checkpoint technology, such as Automated Screening Lanes, to enhance security efficiency while reducing the time travellers spend during the security screening process. Secondly, TSA has been evaluating the use of passengers' biometrics for identity verification, which is expected to modernise aviation passenger identity verification. Thirdly, TSA has been adding more advanced X-ray scanning equipment, such as Computed Tomography X-ray scanners, to enhance threat detection capabilities for carry-on baggage. These scanners produce high-quality 3D images, allowing for a more thorough visual analysis of bag contents and reducing the need for manual bag checks.
Furthermore, TSA has been continuously training its frontline employees at state-of-the-art TSA academies to equip them with the tools to succeed in an agile and innovative environment. They have also been deploying innovative checkpoint technologies, such as Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) machines, to improve security effectiveness and enhance the passenger experience. Additionally, TSA Cares is a helpline that provides travellers with additional assistance during the security screening process for those with disabilities, medical conditions, or other special circumstances.
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Ensure accountability and constant quality of service
To ensure accountability and constant quality of service, airports can opt to employ private security agencies to conduct screening instead of the TSA. This is made possible through the Screening Partnership Program (SPP), instituted in 2004 by the TSA. Airports and security agencies must submit applications to be eligible for the program. Private security agencies are required to follow all TSA screening policies and procedures and use TSA-approved equipment.
The transition to private security screeners is expected to improve the quality of service and make the screening process more efficient. Airport executives and lawmakers argue that private agencies can offer faster response times to issues and provide services that the TSA does not. For example, San Francisco International Airport, the largest U.S. airport with private screeners, has spent $3.3 million on contractors to help manage TSA lines and improve passenger flow.
The TSA PreCheck program, a paid service for 'low-risk travellers', also aims to enhance the security screening process and speed up wait times. This program offers a separate, faster security line and allows travellers to keep their belts and light jackets on, as well as laptops and liquids in carry-on bags. The PreCheck Touchless ID feature further streamlines the process by using facial comparison technology for identity verification, eliminating the need for physical documents.
By utilising private security agencies and implementing faster identification processes, airports can strive to ensure accountability and maintain a consistent quality of service for travellers.
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Create jobs
The Screening Partnership Program (SPP), instituted in 2004, allows airports to hire private security agencies to conduct screening instead of the TSA. Airports and security agencies must complete applications to be eligible to participate in this program. Private security agencies must follow all TSA screening policies and procedures and use TSA-approved equipment.
The program has been well-received by frequent flyers, airport executives, and lawmakers, who argue that it improves the quality of service and makes the screening process more efficient. They also highlight that it creates jobs, which was the subject of a 2012 congressional hearing titled "Why is a job-creating, public-private partnership meeting resistance at the TSA?".
As of 2016, 23 airports have participated in the SPP, including San Francisco International Airport, the largest US airport with private screeners. Other airports that have made the switch to private security screeners include Punta Gorda Airport in Florida and Seattle Tacoma International Airport.
The TSA has also made upgrades to its TSA PreCheck program in 15 airports across America, offering faster security checks for enrolled travellers.
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Improve responsiveness to issues
Airports can improve their responsiveness to issues by employing private security agencies to conduct screenings instead of relying on the TSA. This is made possible through the Screening Partnership Program (SPP), which was instituted in 2004 by the TSA. Under the SPP, airports and security agencies must complete applications and follow all TSA screening policies, procedures, and equipment standards. As of 2016, 23 airports have participated in the SPP, with frequent flyers, airport executives, and lawmakers advocating for it due to its potential to improve the quality and efficiency of the screening process. Private agencies are also believed to be more responsive to issues, with faster resolution times.
Another way to improve responsiveness is to empower TSA officers to identify pain points and seek creative solutions. For example, TSA Manager Kevin Peinado at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) worked on improving daily workforce activities in the checked baggage area. The old storage method for Notice of Inspection (NOI) inserts looked messy and lacked professionalism. Peinado and LAX Mission Support Administrative Assistant Maria McCants brainstormed solutions, which led to the creation of clear plastic boxes with compartments for ziplock ties, box cutters, and TSA keys. This innovation improved the work area's aesthetics and functionality.
Additionally, TSA officers can enhance responsiveness by proactively addressing issues at checkpoints. For instance, the Helena Regional Airport (HLN) Montana Lift team identified a problem with baggage straps getting caught in the X-ray entrance tunnel's gap filler. They designed and 3D printed an L-shaped cover that fit around the post, preventing straps from getting caught and improving the flow of baggage through the X-ray machine.
Airports can also improve responsiveness by ensuring proper monitoring of checked baggage facilities, as this responsibility falls on them as part of their security plan. Methods may include CCTV or other appropriate measures. By effectively monitoring and identifying potential issues, airports can proactively address them before they escalate.
Furthermore, responsiveness can be enhanced through effective communication and coordination with various stakeholders. This includes collaboration between the TSA, intelligence agencies, law enforcement, and international partners to share information and maintain aviation security standards. Additionally, open communication with passengers is crucial. For instance, passengers with medical devices or special needs should inform TSA officers before screening to ensure a smooth process.
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Frequently asked questions
Airports can get rid of TSA screeners by hiring private security agencies to conduct screenings instead. This is made possible through the Screening Partnership Program (SPP), which was instituted in 2004 by the TSA.
Airports must complete an application to be eligible to participate in the program. Once approved, it may take up to 12 months for the contract to be issued, and then an additional 4 to 6 months to transition into the program.
Airports that have joined the SPP report improved efficiency in the screening process, better quality of service, and more accountability. Private agencies are also able to respond to issues faster than the TSA.
