U.S. ends “shoes-off” rule at airport security checkpoints after nearly twenty years

Travelers flying through U.S. airports will no longer be required to remove their shoes during security screenings, ending a policy that has been in place for nearly two decades. The decision was announced by U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, who credited advancements in security technology and screening processes for making the change possible.

“Ending the ‘Shoes-Off’ policy is the latest effort DHS is implementing to modernize and enhance traveler experience across our nation’s airports,” Noem posted on X (formerly Twitter). “We expect this change will drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience.”

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) introduced the rule in August 2006, in the wake of heightened security concerns following an attempted shoe bombing by British national Richard Reid in December 2001. Reid had tried to detonate explosives hidden in his shoes on a flight from Paris to Miami, prompting authorities to tighten passenger screening procedures.

According to Secretary Noem, security remains the top priority. “Thanks to our cutting-edge technological advancements and multi-layered security approach, we are confident we can implement this change while maintaining the highest security standards,” she said.

The move is part of broader efforts by the Trump administration to modernize air travel infrastructure and reduce bottlenecks. Noem referred to it as one of the initiatives aligned with “the President’s vision for a new Golden Age of American travel.”

While many European airports had already relaxed shoe removal requirements in recent years, the change marks a significant shift in U.S. airport security policy—one that is expected to be welcomed by frequent flyers and airport authorities alike.