Skip to navigation Skip to content
click here to view our 'Why' videos

Screening Partnership Program

Merging Private-sector Expertise and Public-sector Know How

Three business professionals standing together

The Screening Partnership Program, also known as SPP or Opt-Out, is a unique approach to providing security screening services for air passengers and baggage. Under the program, an airport operator may apply to have security screening conducted by personnel from a qualified private contractor working under Federal oversight.

The program was designed to meet the requirement of the "opt-out" provision established by the Aviation and Transportation Security Act of 2001, or ATSA. Airport operators have been able to apply to SPP to use private screeners since November 2004. Private contractor screeners are currently in place at nine airports across the country, combining private-sector operational expertise with TSA's technology, experience and resources.

When a contract is awarded to an SPP airport, TSA works with the airport management and a qualified screening company to make a cost-effective and seamless transition from using TSA Transportation Security Officers to using private security screeners. Once the transition is complete, TSA's Federal Security Directors ensure all security standards are met and maintained.


TSO with screening wand

Program Overview
Know more about how the Screening Partnership Program works.



Man using a megaphone

Announcements
Discover what's coming up and what new RFPs are out.




Question mark key on keyboard

Frequently Asked Questions
Get the facts on the Screening Partnership Program.



Hands filling out a form

Program Application
Learn how to become a part of this exciting program.



Front page of newspaper

News
Get the latest news & information on the program.