Business & Finance
TSA introduces Horizon 25 strategy to expand private contractors and overhaul security operations
The new strategy replaces the Trump administration's Gold+ program while continuing efforts to increase public-private screening partnerships.
The short version
- The Transportation Security Administration unveiled 'Horizon 25,' a strategy that cancels the controversial TSA Gold+ plan while continuing efforts to expand privatized airport screening.
- The strategy focuses on expanding the Screening Partnership Program (SPP), upgrading TSA PreCheck, speeding up technology purchases, and improving defenses against uncrewed drones.
- Concerns remain regarding potential job losses and reduced labor protections for screening staff, while specific details on the planned upgrades to TSA PreCheck have not yet been released.
Key facts
- The TSA introduced a new strategy named Horizon 25 ahead of the agency's 25th anniversary.[Business Insider]
- Horizon 25 cancels the Trump administration's TSA Gold+ initiative, which had met opposition from the American Federation of Government Employees union.[Business Insider]
- The TSA intends to expand privatized security through an evolved Screening Partnership Program, which currently operates at 20 airports, including San Francisco International Airport.[Business Insider]
- Airports utilizing the Screening Partnership Program were not disrupted during Department of Homeland Security funding lapses in October 2025 and March 2026.[Business Insider]
- The Horizon 25 plan includes measures to enhance TSA PreCheck, streamline technology procurement, and improve capabilities to counter drone threats.[Business Insider]
What remains uncertain
- The TSA has not yet detailed the specific operational changes or enhancements coming to TSA PreCheck under the Horizon 25 plan.[Business Insider]
Sources
- The TSA is planning big changes to airport security. Here's what they mean for travelers.Business Insider metered