Some Airports Turn to Private Screening to Avoid Shutdown Disruptions

The TSA's screening partnership program allows airports to use private security companies, shielding them from political impasses.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 2:51pm

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As the latest government shutdown causes long security lines at some of the nation's busiest airports, the contrast highlights a debate over whether privatizing TSA screening could provide a solution. While the program is currently limited to a few airports, some aviation experts see it as a potential model for keeping security lines moving with fewer disruptions during shutdowns. However, critics caution that privatization is not a silver bullet and could introduce new risks.

Why it matters

The partial government shutdown is the third in less than a year to temporarily leave TSA workers without pay, leading to higher absenteeism and slower-moving checkpoints. These disruptions can ripple through the travel system, cascading problems across already crowded flight schedules, especially during peak travel seasons. The debate over privatizing TSA screening touches on broader questions about the role of government in providing essential services and the tradeoffs between efficiency, accountability, and worker protections.

The details

Under the TSA's screening partnership program, airports can use private security companies chosen by the federal government to run checkpoints while the TSA retains authority over procedures and oversight. This system has helped maintain screening operations at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) during past shutdowns, as the contractors' pay comes from a federal contract that continues even when the government is shut down. However, critics argue that privatization could weaken accountability for aviation security and lead to cost-cutting measures that affect training, staffing levels, and employee benefits.

  • The current partial shutdown began in March 2026 and affects only the Department of Homeland Security, which includes the TSA.
  • The TSA's screening partnership program was established in 2004.

The players

San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

The largest of nearly two dozen U.S. airports where screening checkpoints are staffed by private contractors under the TSA's screening partnership program.

Sheldon Jacobson

An aviation security expert whose research contributed to the design of the TSA PreCheck program, and who believes the success of the privatized screening model at SFO shows it is something that needs to be explored further.

Johnny Jones

The secretary-treasurer of the TSA union's bargaining unit, who opposes any privatization of federal employees.

Geoff Freeman

The president of the U.S. Travel Association, who is urging Congress to pass legislation that would ensure aviation workers are paid regardless of the government's funding status.

Ha Nguyen McNeill

A senior TSA official who has signaled an openness to discussing potential privatization, saying "nothing is off the table."

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What they’re saying

“The money's already been allocated, the payments have already been made, and that continues without interruption. That is a very nice place to be.”

— Doug Yakel, Spokesperson, San Francisco International Airport (Associated Press)

“We will never advocate for any privatization of any federal employees. We don't believe that'll work.”

— Johnny Jones, Secretary-Treasurer, TSA Union Bargaining Unit (Associated Press)

“If a new privatization scheme makes sense, then we're happy to have that discussion to see what we can come up with. It's not an all-or-nothing game.”

— Ha Nguyen McNeill, Senior TSA Official (Associated Press)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.