TSA Ends Mandatory Shoe Removal at Airport Security Checkpoints
TSA Ends Mandatory Shoe Removal at Airport Security Checkpoints
After nearly two decades, air travelers in the United States will no longer be required to remove their shoes at airport security checkpoints. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is in the process of phasing out this long-standing security measure, a government source confirmed to CNN.
The White House Press Secretary lauded the development on social media, calling it significant news from the Department of Homeland Security. While an internal memo detailing the change has circulated and was first reported by the blog Gate Access, the TSA has yet to formally confirm the policy shift.
In a statement, TSA public affairs noted, “TSA and DHS are always exploring new and innovative ways to enhance the passenger experience and our strong security posture. Any potential updates to our security process will be issued through official channels.”
Early observations show an inconsistent rollout: Passengers at Hancock International Airport in Syracuse, New York, were not asked to remove footwear on Monday, according to CNN affiliate WSTM. However, on Tuesday morning, travelers at Chicago O’Hare were still subject to the shoe removal requirement, as reported by CNN affiliate WLS.
The mandatory shoe removal policy was implemented nearly five years after Richard Reid, the “shoe bomber,” attempted to detonate explosives hidden in his shoes on a flight in December 2001. The requirement was specifically introduced in 2006, following intelligence about a continuing threat, which also led to the 3-1-1 liquids rule.
Participants in the TSA PreCheck program have long been exempt from removing shoes, provided they undergo a background check and pay an application fee.
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