Washington: Travelers passing through US airports can now keep their shoes on during security checks, ending a rule that has inconvenienced passengers since 2006. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed that the change applies immediately nationwide.
The policy was originally put in place following the 2001 attempted shoe bombing by Richard Reid and became mandatory across all airports five years later. Modern security systems and improved layered screening have now made this step unnecessary, according to Noem, who noted that the goal is to maintain strict safety standards while making travel smoother.
For years, only TSA PreCheck members and kids under 12 were generally allowed to skip shoe removal. Some airports had already started testing the updated procedure before the official rollout.
Other standard security rules, like removing belts, coats, laptops, and liquids, will stay in place for now but are also under review. Airlines and industry groups have welcomed the move, saying it will speed up lines and improve the airport experience for millions.
The change marks a shift in how the US balances aviation safety with passenger convenience, showing how new technology is reshaping the airport journey.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Velit omnis animi et iure laudantium vitae, praesentium optio, sapiente distinctio illo?