by Travelers across the U.S. will no longer be required to remove their shoes at airport security, marking the end of a nearly two-decade-old Transportation Security Administration (TSA) policy.
Key Highlights
- As of Tuesday, TSA no longer requires passengers to remove shoes at security checkpoints in domestic airports.
- The change ends a rule in place since 2006, originally enacted after British terrorist Richard Reid’s failed 2001 attempt to detonate explosives hidden in his shoes.
- DHS Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the change during a press briefing at Reagan National Airport, saying the policy shift is expected to improve efficiency and traveler satisfaction.
Policy Background
- The “shoes-off rule” was implemented in August 2006 as a precaution to detect hidden explosives.
- Until now, only TSA PreCheck members were allowed to keep their shoes on during screening.
- TSA may still require individuals to remove shoes if further screening is needed.
Airports Already Adopting the Change
According to CBS News sources, several airports began phasing in the change prior to the formal announcement, including:
- Baltimore/Washington International
- Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International
- Fort Lauderdale International
- Philadelphia International
- Piedmont Triad International (NC)
- Portland International
- Select screening lanes at New York’s LaGuardia Airport
Expected Impact on Travelers
- Shorter lines and faster screening are anticipated as fewer items need to be removed and scanned.
- Caleb Harmon-Marshall of Gate Access called it “one of the biggest changes to TSA screening in over a decade.”
- Some TSA officers may still use discretion to request shoe removal if necessary.
Implications for TSA PreCheck
- PreCheck still offers advantages such as keeping belts on and leaving liquids and electronics in bags.
- However, Harmon-Marshall noted the policy shift may diminish PreCheck’s perceived value, potentially prompting further adjustments to the program.
Looking Ahead
- Homeland Security will test new security lane designs over the next six to nine months to further streamline TSA checkpoints.
- Officials say all screening procedures remain under review to ensure safety and efficiency.
The policy shift marks a major milestone in easing air travel routines while maintaining national security protocols.
