Airport screening no longer requires travelers to remove their shoes, as directed by Homeland Security.
In a significant move aimed at enhancing the travel experience, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the end of the shoe removal policy at TSA security checkpoints across all U.S. airports. This change is part of DHS's efforts to modernize security processes and improve the traveler experience [1][2][3].
The updated TSA security checkpoint procedures no longer require passengers to remove their shoes, except in specific cases where additional screening is deemed necessary [1]. Despite this change, the TSA's multi-layered security approach remains in place, including additional security officers, new scanners, technology, and the recently enforced REAL ID requirement [1][2]. Passengers will still undergo identity verification and Secure Flight vetting as part of the screening process [3].
The policy change is expected to reduce wait times and improve the overall traveler experience at TSA checkpoints [2][3]. It is part of broader initiatives by the administration to enhance American travel experiences [3]. Notably, the TSA is planning to introduce a security checkpoint pilot program at several airports over the next six to nine months, allowing individuals to go through the screening process without interacting with an officer, walk through machines, or removing devices like laptops from their bags [4].
The security checkpoint pilot program is also intended to make the travel experience easier for families traveling with babies and children, as it allows them to go through the screening process together separately from others [5]. Certain airports already have family lane security points, which offer similar benefits.
The termination of the shoe-removal policy is due to the layered security measures in place by the TSA [6]. While shoes may still be asked for removal in some instances for additional security screening, the new policy does not affect the requirement for passengers to go through multiple layers of screening and identity verification [7].
Nickolas E. Calio, president and CEO of Airlines for America, applauded DHS Secretary Kristi Noem's leadership and vision in reexamining the 20-year-old shoe screening requirement [8]. The TSA's success with implementing REAL ID, which was put into statute over 20 years ago, is a testament to the agency's commitment to maintaining high security standards while improving traveler convenience and efficiency [9].
Passengers who do not have a REAL ID will not be required to remove their shoes, but may be flagged for other reasons necessitating additional security screening [10]. TSA PreCheck remains valuable for travelers as it allows them to bypass additional security screening measures, including removing belts, coats, and items like laptops or compliant liquids [11].
DHS is confident that the security at each airport is adequate with individuals keeping their shoes on during the screening process [12]. Secretary Noem expressed optimism about the new policy, stating that it represents a step towards a more modern, efficient, and secure travel experience for all [13].
- The TSA's new security checkpoint procedures, which include updated scanners and technology, are part of a broader initiative by the administration to enhance American travel experiences.
- The security checkpoint pilot program, planned to be introduced at several airports, aims to make the travel experience easier for families, as it allows them to go through the screening process together without interacting with an officer.
- The policy change in the shoe removal policy at TSA security checkpoints is due to the layered security measures in place by the TSA, which include the REAL ID requirement and various scanning technologies.
