In a major change to airport security procedures, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) plans to end the requirement for travelers to remove their shoes during screening at U.S. airports. The policy change is expected to take full effect by the end of 2025, thanks to advancements in screening technology that can detect potential threats without requiring passengers to take off their footwear.
This update comes after years of complaints from travelers and security experts who considered the shoe removal process outdated and inconvenient. The rule has been in place since 2006, following the 2001 attempted shoe bombing by Richard Reid. Since then, all travelers, unless enrolled in TSA PreCheck or otherwise exempt, have been asked to remove their shoes before passing through security checkpoints.
Now, new high-tech scanners are changing that.
Advanced Scanners Will Replace Outdated Screening Process
The upcoming change is made possible by the rollout of advanced screening systems that use millimeter-wave and computed tomography (CT) technology. These machines are capable of detecting concealed weapons, explosives, and other threats without passengers needing to remove their shoes.
According to TSA officials, these new scanners have already been tested at select airports and have proven successful in accurately scanning shoes while passengers keep them on. The agency is now working on expanding the use of this equipment across the country.
The transition will not happen all at once. TSA plans a phased rollout, with the goal of having the new machines installed at most major airports by late 2025. Until then, the traditional screening process, including shoe removal, will still be in place at many checkpoints.
TSA Administrator David Pekoske said the change is part of the agency’s long-term efforts to modernize airport security while improving the passenger experience.
This is a significant step forward in how we screen passengers,” Pekoske said. “We’re able to enhance security while also making the process smoother and more efficient for travelers.
What This Means for Passengers
Once the change takes effect nationwide, most travelers will no longer need to remove their shoes at security checkpoints. This will likely shorten wait times and make the process less stressful, especially for families with children, older adults, and people with mobility challenges.
However, the TSA notes there will still be exceptions. In certain situations, security officers may still ask passengers to remove their shoes, especially if the scanner detects an anomaly or if the airport does not yet have the upgraded equipment. Travelers enrolled in TSA PreCheck will continue to benefit from expedited screening, though the shoe rule change will make the standard screening process more comfortable for everyone.
Important Points:
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TSA will phase out shoe removal by late 2025.
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New scanners can detect threats without passengers removing footwear.
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Rollout will be gradual and depend on each airport’s equipment upgrades.
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Passengers may still be asked to remove shoes in some cases.
With more than 2 million people flying every day in the U.S., this shift marks one of the biggest changes in airport security policy in years. As technology continues to evolve, the TSA says it remains focused on balancing strong security with a more traveler-friendly experience.
Source(Image / Thumbnail): abcnews,nytimes
