Twenty US airports are operating normally despite the partial government shutdown, thanks to their use of private security companies instead of federal agents. The Transportation Security Administration’s Screening Partnership Program (SPP) allows contract screeners to hire their own employees and receive pay that isn’t paused during shutdowns.
While most SPP airports are small with limited commercial operations, larger ones like San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Kansas City International Airport (MCI) host multiple airlines and handle thousands of passengers daily. Security wait times remain normal at these airports, thanks to the private screeners who follow the same training and procedures as TSA agents.
In contrast, airports relying on federal TSA agents have seen extended security lines, with some experiencing delays up to 3 hours due to mass call-outs by unpaid agents. However, not all SPP airports are immune to staffing-related issues. Orlando International Airport, for example, has longer-than-usual security lines during peak travel periods, even though TSA agents perform the same duties as private screeners.
The use of private security companies in US airports offers several benefits, including lower costs, improved efficiency, and reduced turnover rates compared to federal screening. However, some experts warn that contracting multiple companies could create inconsistencies in security standards and weaken job protections for TSA employees.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/these-20-airports-dont-use-tsa-screeners-2026-3