NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. — Charleston International Airport (CHS) is formally pursuing a transition to the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Gold+ Program, a TSA-approved screening model that combines advanced security technology with continued federal oversight while providing greater workplace stability for the Transportation Security Officers who serve the airport.
The Gold+ Program allows airports to partner with a private screening contractor operating under TSA’s Screening Partnership Program while maintaining TSA’s rigorous federal security standards. TSA will continue to establish all security requirements, oversee screening operations, conduct inspections, and ensure full compliance with federal aviation security regulations.
For the dedicated Transportation Security Officers serving Charleston International Airport, the initiative represents an investment in both people and technology. Every current TSA officer at CHS who wishes to remain will have the opportunity to transition to the screening contractor at equivalent pay and benefits. In addition, employees will no longer face the uncertainty of missed paychecks during future federal government shutdowns.
The transition will also introduce next-generation screening technologies designed to improve checkpoint efficiency, support screening personnel in their daily responsibilities, and enhance the passenger experience.
“Our TSA officers are among the very best in the nation,” said Elliott Summey, President and CEO of Charleston International Airport. “This decision is about investing in the people who protect our travelers every day by providing them with better tools, greater workplace stability, and the support they deserve while continuing to deliver the highest level of aviation security.”
Charleston International Airport emphasized that its partnership with TSA remains strong and that security standards will not change under the Gold+ Program. TSA will continue to oversee all screening operations, establish federal security requirements, and conduct regular inspections to ensure the highest level of aviation security.
“As our airport continues to grow, we will continue investing in our people, embracing innovation, and enhancing the passenger experience,” Summey said. “The TSA Gold+ Program allows us to accomplish all three while maintaining the high standards our community, passengers, and airline partners expect from Charleston International Airport.”
What This Means for Travelers
- Security remains the highest priority. TSA will continue to establish and oversee all federal aviation security requirements.
- Experienced screening personnel will remain at CHS. Current TSA officers who choose to stay will have the opportunity to transition to the screening contractor at equivalent pay and benefits.
- Advanced screening technology will be introduced over time to improve efficiency and modernize checkpoint operations.
- Passengers can expect a faster, smarter, and more customer-friendly screening experience without compromising safety or security.
The TSA Gold+ Program is designed to strengthen airport security through innovation while ensuring a stable, highly trained workforce dedicated to protecting the traveling public.
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