In a significant shift in air travel regulations, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced on Tuesday that travelers will no longer need to remove their shoes when passing through Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security checkpoints at airports across the United States. This policy marks the end of a nearly two-decade mandate that became a standard part of the airport security process.
Secretary Noem confirmed that this new policy will be implemented at all airports nationwide. While the screening equipment at various airports may vary, Noem expressed confidence in the adequacy of security measures in place. “We evaluated the equipment at each airport and are fully confident that there is adequate security as individuals go through the screening process with their shoes on,” she stated during a news conference at Reagan National Airport.
While the new policy allows most travelers to keep their shoes on, Noem noted that there may still be instances where individuals will be asked to remove their shoes. “If we think there are additional layers of screening necessary, that may still happen to an individual,” she explained. This ensures that the TSA can maintain high security standards while implementing more convenient measures for travelers.
The decision to lift the shoe removal requirement is attributed to the "layered security" approach now adopted by the TSA. This includes the presence of additional officers at security checkpoints, advanced scanning technology, and the recently enforced REAL ID requirement. “Passengers will still pass through multiple layers of screening and identity verification,” Noem added, highlighting the success of the REAL ID implementation which has been in the works for over two decades.
For those traveling without a REAL ID, shoe removal will not be mandated; however, they may still be subject to further security checks based on various factors. Despite these changes, Secretary Noem emphasized the continued importance of TSA PreCheck, a program that allows frequent travelers to bypass some of the more rigorous security measures, such as removing belts, coats, or laptops from bags.
Looking to the future, Noem mentioned that the agency is working on streamlining the screening process. Within the next six to nine months, they aim to launch a security checkpoint pilot program at select airports. This initiative would allow travelers to undergo screening without direct interaction with officers, walk through machines, or remove devices like laptops from their bags. Additionally, certain airports are currently offering family lane security points, which enable families to navigate the screening process together, easing the travel experience for those with children.
Following the announcement, Airlines for America, a prominent airline trade group representing major U.S. air carriers, released a supportive statement. Nicholas E. Calio, the president and CEO of the group, praised Secretary Noem’s leadership and the reexamination of the 20-year-old shoe screening requirement. “This policy change will go a long way in facilitating smooth, seamless, and secure travel for passengers,” Calio stated, emphasizing the positive impact this will have on millions of daily travelers.
