Passengers flying from US domestic airports will no longer need to remove their shoes at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints, following a policy shift announced by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on Tuesday.
The change, which is being rolled out at airports nationwide, aims to simplify the security screening process and reduce checkpoint wait times. It comes as part of broader efforts by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to modernise airport procedures.
Secretary Noem said the revised policy reflects technological improvements and a more layered approach to aviation security.
Secretary Noem said:Ending the ‘Shoes-Off’ policy is the latest effort DHS is implementing to modernise and enhance traveller experience across our nation’s airports. We expect this change will drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience.
As always, security remains our top priority. Thanks to our cutting-edge technological advancements and multi-layered security approach, we are confident we can implement this change while maintaining the highest security standards. This initiative is just one of many the Trump administration is pursuing to usher in the President’s vision for a new Golden Age of American travel.
The updated procedure will apply to most passengers at domestic airports. The ‘Shoes-Off’ policy was introduced in the early 2000s following attempted attacks involving explosives concealed in footwear. However, evolving detection technology and risk assessments have enabled a reassessment of the measure.
