If you’re like me, you likely be quite happy to hear what I’m about to share with you. This is long overdue for those of us who travel frequently in the United States.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will no longer require all passengers to remove their shoes during normal security screening. Keeping shoes on was previously a privilege reserved for those with TSA PreCheck, but is now being extended to all passengers thanks to improvements in screening technology.
White House Press Secertary Karoline Leavitt has seemingly confirmed the change on X.
Having to remove shoes while going through airport security was originally implemented because of an attempted attack in 2001, but the policy wasn’t nationally required until 2006. Since then, having to remove your shoes has been one of the most stressful and annoying parts of traveling for non PreCheck passengers. This move is a good step in the right direction when it comes to improving the airport experience while still keeping our skies safe and secure.
What do you think about this change? Is this a good move, or an oversight?
Definitely a nice change! The decision to have people start removing their shoes in the wake of the failed shoe bombing attempt in 2001 was right in the moment, but the technology has changed such that it’s no longer needed.
I have TSA PreCheck, so haven’t had to ever remove my shoes, but it’ll certainly speed up TSA for everyone else as well.
For small airports like Jackson Hole that have limited screening capacity, this will be a blessing; especially during summer mornings when we have 10 airline departures between 7:00 and 8:45am with an average of 1,200 pax
I’ve had PreCheck for a couple of years but I’ve ended up in general screening quite often for one reason or another, and it always reminds me how nice it is to keep your shoes on. I’m glad I’ll get to now no matter what line I’m in.
I watched a documentary today about the 7/7 London attacks on Netflix (its worth a watch) and in it they mentioned something about this incident and how the guy who attempted this was radicalised in the UK. I know this is a bit dark to share but I thought it would be interesting and a bit coincidental.
You better be right I’m going to fly internationally by myself and I was stressed out about taking off my shoes but ig I have one less thing to worry about
Those kinds of documentaries are important and definitely worth a watch. It is interesting to see just how secure air travel became after the 9/11 attacks, and in such a short time too.
I always thought not taking shoes off was the norm lol. The only times I ever had to take off shoes was when I was flying domestically in Japan and at Canberra Airport.
I honestly think it depends on the airport. Also depends on if somebody is wearing boots or whatnot. A lot of people wore boots when I travelled to Japan, and were asked to take them off at security.
I’m going to fly internationally by myself and I was stressed out about taking off my shoes but ig I have one less thing to worry about
