Quick Read
- TSA has started phasing out its mandatory shoes-off policy at select U.S. airports.
- The rule, implemented in 2006, was a response to the 2001 ‘shoe bomber’ incident.
- Advancements in screening technology now allow threat detection without shoe removal.
- The policy is currently being rolled out on a trial basis at several major airports.
- Passengers triggering alarms may still be required to remove shoes for additional checks.
In a significant shift for U.S. airport security, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has begun phasing out its mandatory shoes-off policy for passengers in standard screening lanes at select airports. This change, which started in early July 2025, is being quietly implemented as part of a broader effort to enhance passenger experience while maintaining high security standards.
Phasing Out a 20-Year-Old Security Rule
The TSA’s shoes-off policy has been a cornerstone of airport security since its nationwide implementation in 2006. The rule was introduced in response to the 2001 attempted bombing by British national Richard Reid, infamously known as the “shoe bomber.” Reid had hidden explosives in his footwear during an American Airlines flight from Paris to Miami, an incident that profoundly changed global aviation security protocols. Although Reid’s attempt was thwarted, it led to the adoption of stricter screening measures, including mandatory shoe removal for all passengers.
According to CBS News, the new policy initially applies to passengers at airports such as Baltimore/Washington International, Fort Lauderdale International, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International, Portland International, Philadelphia International, and North Carolina’s Piedmont Triad International. Observers have also noted the relaxed rule being implemented at Los Angeles International and New York’s LaGuardia airports, though the TSA has not yet formally announced these changes.
Technology Enables Policy Shift
The rollback of the shoes-off policy has been facilitated by advancements in screening technology. TSA officials have confirmed that updated equipment now allows security officers to detect threats in footwear without requiring passengers to remove their shoes. This technological upgrade aligns with the agency’s commitment to “exploring new and innovative ways to enhance the passenger experience,” as stated in a press release covered by ABC News.
Previously, the privilege of keeping shoes on during security screenings was reserved for TSA PreCheck members, a program that requires an $80 enrollment fee and a background check. The expansion of this convenience to standard screening lanes could potentially impact the perceived value of the TSA PreCheck program. However, TSA officials have emphasized that the new policy reflects evolving security capabilities rather than diminishing PreCheck’s benefits.
Is the Policy Here to Stay?
The new shoes-on policy is currently being implemented on a trial basis. While the TSA has not confirmed whether it will become a permanent nationwide standard, internal memos suggest that the agency aims to extend the policy to all U.S. airports in the near future. However, passengers who trigger alarms during the screening process may still be required to remove their shoes for additional checks.
The phased rollout of this policy marks a significant milestone in the TSA’s efforts to modernize its operations. As noted by San.com, the decision underscores the agency’s dual focus on maintaining rigorous security measures while improving the overall travel experience for millions of passengers.
Public and Industry Reactions
The announcement has been met with a mix of relief and curiosity from the traveling public and industry experts. Passengers have long viewed the shoes-off requirement as one of the more cumbersome aspects of airport security, often cited as a source of delays and inconvenience. For frequent travelers, the change is a welcome development, signaling a move toward more streamlined processes.
However, some security analysts have expressed caution, noting that any relaxation of screening protocols should be accompanied by robust safeguards to mitigate potential risks. The TSA has assured the public that its updated screening technology meets stringent security standards, reinforcing its commitment to passenger safety.
The gradual elimination of the shoes-off policy represents a transformative moment in airport security, reflecting both technological progress and a renewed focus on passenger convenience. While the full implications of this change remain to be seen, it undoubtedly marks the end of an era for millions of air travelers.