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In a major shift for air travelers, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced Tuesday that passengers will no longer be required to remove their shoes at TSA security checkpoints in U.S. airports — ending a two-decade-old policy introduced in the aftermath of 9/11.
Speaking from Reagan National Airport, Noem said the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) now has the technology and layered security infrastructure to ensure passenger safety without the need for shoe removal.
“We are excited with the fact that we have the technology now … and the multi-layers of screening in place,” Noem said. “That gives us the ability to allow our travelers to keep their shoes on.”
Policy Change Applies Nationwide
The new rule applies immediately at all airports, though Noem acknowledged some individuals may still be asked to remove shoes if additional screening is deemed necessary. This could be due to flagged risk indicators or the absence of proper ID documentation.
While airport screening equipment varies from location to location, Noem said DHS conducted evaluations and is “fully confident” in the capabilities of each facility.
Why Now? Tech, REAL ID, and Layered Security
The decision to end the mandatory shoe removal stems from advancements in screening capabilities. These include:
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Improved body scanners
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Additional TSA officers at checkpoints
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The enforcement of REAL ID, which became mandatory earlier this year
Passengers without a REAL ID will not be exempt from keeping their shoes on but could be subject to additional scrutiny.
Noem also emphasized the importance of TSA PreCheck, which still allows travelers to keep belts, coats, laptops, and liquids in their bags. She said the PreCheck program remains beneficial for frequent fliers who want to minimize interaction and delays at security.
Next Steps: Hands-Free Checkpoints in Development
Looking ahead, DHS is piloting new security checkpoint models that could be rolled out over the next six to nine months. These would allow travelers to walk through screening without removing laptops or engaging directly with TSA officers.
Certain airports are also implementing family lane checkpoints, allowing families with young children to move through security together with less disruption.
Airlines Back the Change
The announcement received swift praise from the airline industry.
“We applaud Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem for her leadership,” said Nicholas E. Calio, CEO of Airlines for America. “This policy change will go a long way in facilitating smooth, seamless and secure travel for passengers.”
The TSA shoe removal policy was introduced in 2001 after a failed shoe bombing attempt on a transatlantic flight, and has since become one of the most widely resented security procedures. Noem’s move marks a symbolic and practical turning point in American air travel.
Bottom Line:
Travelers can now keep their shoes on when passing through TSA checkpoints, thanks to improved technology and new layered security protocols — a long-awaited modernization in airport screening.
