Orlando-Sanford Airport Takes On TSA

The Orlando-Sanford International Airport is taking on the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The airport wants to hire its own private security screeners. However, the TSA said that's no longer allowed.

The TSA's top man says he's not expanding the program beyond the 16 airports that already have private screeners, but the Orlando-Sanford International Airport director sent a letter out Tuesday to the TSA asking to make the switch anyway, and he said the law is on his side.

Whether the airport screeners are hired by the government or a private company, WFTV heard the same reaction from travelers at Orlando-Sanford International Airport.

"As long as we're safe flying, that's all I care about," one traveler said.

But Sanford airport director Larry Dale, who is already known for doing things his own way, could be headed for a showdown with the feds.

"It's not that we're against the TSA. We're for free enterprise, the American way," Dale said.

Dale said that means replacing TSA workers with private security. In his letter and application to the TSA, Dale indicated the Sanford Airport Authority itself might hire the screeners, rather than going with an outside company.

"I think the accountability will be greater and the TSA will continue to have oversight. I work well with the TSA here and I'll continue to do so," Dale said.

Dale said he already has a letter from the TSA confirming the Sanford Airport Authority is qualified to handle security for the airport, which expects to see about $1.8 million in 2011.

Dale said he might not go down quietly if the TSA denies his request.

"We'll be looking at our administrative and legal options," Dale said.

"Oh, you're ready for a fight?" WFTV reporter Eric Rasmussen asked.

"Well, we're not going to back away from it," he replied.

Even if Sanford gets its way, it could take six to eight months before the airport takes over security.