TSA Eases Shoe Removal Rule at Select US Airports, More Expected to Follow
TSA Eases Shoe Removal Rule at Select US Airports, More Expected to Follow
In a significant change for air travelers, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has begun phasing out the requirement for passengers to remove their shoes during standard security checks at several U.S. airports. The move, confirmed by sources close to the development, marks an evolution in preflight screening procedures.
Airports where the no-shoes rule is reportedly no longer enforced include Baltimore/Washington International (BWI), Fort Lauderdale International (FLL), Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International (CVG), Portland International (PDX), Philadelphia International (PHL), and Piedmont Triad International (GSO) in North Carolina. Reports from other major hubs, such as Los Angeles International (LAX) and New York City’s LaGuardia (LGA), also indicate a broader, albeit unannounced, relaxation of the rule.
While TSA PreCheck members have long enjoyed the convenience of keeping their footwear on, this new policy extends the benefit to a wider array of travelers undergoing standard screening. The TSA stated that it, along with the Department of Homeland Security, is “always exploring new and innovative ways to enhance the passenger experience and our strong security posture.”
The original shoe removal mandate was implemented nationwide in 2006, a response to the 2001 “shoe bomber” incident involving Richard Reid. This latest adjustment suggests a shift in security protocols, potentially leveraging new technologies or intelligence to streamline the screening process for millions of passengers.
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