Tampa Airport Plans to Replace 800 TSA Jobs by May 2027

The American Federation of Government Employees is objecting to the Trump administration and Tampa International Airport plan to privatize security screening next year under a new voluntary Gold+ program. TSA has identified Tampa as one of the airports entering the program, where a private contractor would handle passenger screening while TSA retains oversight. The shift is expected to affect nearly 800 TSA employees assigned to the airport.

Workforce Numbers at the Center

Union representatives point to the nearly 800 screeners as the core of their concerns. They argue that privatization could reduce pay and benefits for those employees and transfer control of screening technology to private contractors. The American Federation of Government Employees has framed the change as a direct threat to the current workforce structure at Tampa International.

Transition Timeline and Scope

Reports indicate Tampa International aims to complete the transition by May 2027. The airport has stated the move is intended to improve flexibility, modernization and long-term efficiency while reducing potential disruption during government shutdowns. TSA describes the Gold+ program as voluntary, with the agency maintaining final oversight of screening operations.

Union Position on Pay and Technology

Union representatives have emphasized two main risks tied to the numbers. They say lower compensation packages could follow the contractor model and that technology decisions would move away from TSA control. The American Federation of Government Employees has lodged formal objections to both the Trump administration and the airport over these points.

What Comes Next

The transition remains in the planning stage, with the May 2027 completion date serving as the current benchmark. Affected employees and union officials will continue to monitor developments through the Gold+ program rollout at Tampa International Airport.