Frequently Asked Questions - Application
Screening Partnership Program
How do airports apply to the Screening Partnership Program (SPP)?
Interested airports can submit an application via postal mail service, fax, hand delivery, email, or courier. The SPP Application can be found at the TSA website under what we do, Screening Partnership Program in the section labeled Program Application.
What is the application period?
TSA is accepting applications on an open enrollment basis. There is no defined end date at this time.
Can all airports throughout the country apply to the SPP?
The airport application process to join SPP is open to all Federally-staffed airports in the United States that require screening services.
If an airport applies to the SPP, can it later withdraw its application?
An Airport may withdraw their SPP application at any point up until TSA releases the Request for Proposal (RFP) for that Airport. Once TSA issues a RFP, it would be difficult to have the airport withdraw its candidacy, since the RFP is the contractual document issued to contract screening services at an airport.
What is the criteria for airport applicant selection?
TSA seeks to make the application approval process simple and straight forward. ATSA does not identify specific criteria for the airport application; and TSA reserves the right to consider an Airport’s participation in the program based on the airport’s record of compliance on security regulations and requirements, along with other issues presented by the SPP Application Committee (SAC) members and TSA’s stakeholders during the approval process.
Can airports apply to use contract screeners at some security checkpoints but not all; that is to say, a partial opt-out?
Yes, if an airport proposes such a plan, TSA will consider this option.
Can an airport entity compete to provide screening services at their airport?
Yes, if an independent entity created by an Airport authority meets the qualification criteria identified by ATSA and TSA (this determination will be made at the time of RFP submission) it may compete for the contract to provide private screening services at that Airport. This does not guarantee the Airport will be awarded the contract for screening services. The independent entity will be required to submit information to TSA similar to that required of industry; as applicable.
