Will Determine If Private Contractors Will Take Over Security At The Airport

The Orange County, FL Airport Board will vote Wednesday on a proposal to replace TSA personnel with private contractors at Orlando International Airport (KMCO).

Television station WOFL reports that, according to TSA officials, the move would be a cost-saving measure. Under the proposal, security agents and screeners would be hired contractors overseen by TSA.

But AFGE, the union which represents TSA personnel, is reportedly "dead set" against the idea. Agents are planning to picket Orange County government buildings, calling for the Mayor to oppose the measure.

TSA spokeswoman Carolyn Dorgham said that if the agents are displaced by contractors, they will have an opportunity to transfer to other airports if they wish to do so and positions are available. They could also go to work for the private company conducting screening, or retire if they are eligible.

If security is privatized at KMCO, it would become the largest airport in the U.S. to operate with private screeners, according to the report.

(Image from file)

FMI: Original report, www.orlandoairports.net