TSA Ends Nationwide Shoe Removal Requirement at Airports

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is ending the nearly 20-year-old requirement for passengers to remove their shoes at airport security checkpoints nationwide, a policy that originated after the 2001 attempted shoe bombing by Richard Reid. Announced by Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, the change aims to improve traveler experience by reducing wait times and streamlining the screening process while maintaining security through a multi-layered approach. This policy shift affects all travelers using the regular security lines, though exemptions remain for TSA PreCheck members, Clear customers, minors, and seniors. The rollout will begin at select airports and is expected to expand nationwide, including high-traffic hubs like Orlando International Airport, which often faces congestion due to heavy leisure travel. While passengers will no longer need to remove shoes, other security measures such as the removal of liquids and belts are still being evaluated. The change has sparked mixed reactions on social media, especially regarding the value of TSA PreCheck, which previously offered the benefit of keeping shoes on during screening.