TSA allows passengers to keep shoes on at select airports

In a significant shift in airport security protocol in the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has permitted travelers to retain their shoes during security screenings at certain airports. This change, which took effect recently on July 8, 2025, is being implemented in a phased manner at select airports, including Baltimore/Washington International Airport, Fort Lauderdale International Airport, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, and several others. It marks a substantial development in the ongoing evolution of airport security measures that were initially put in place following security threats in the early 2000s. The policy change comes almost two decades after the TSA established the shoe removal rule nationwide in 2006. This ruling was a direct response to the 2001 incident involving British national Richard Reid, who attempted to detonate explosives hidden in his shoes on an American Airlines flight. In light of this past threat, security measures have historically included the removal of footwear as a precautionary measure. However, recent evaluations and internal TSA communications suggest that the agency is seeking to modernize and simplify the passenger experience, recognizing the advancements in security technologies and procedures. As part of the reconsideration of the shoe removal requirement, TSA PreCheck travelers have long been able to avoid this step, allowing them a more expedited security process. The TSA PreCheck Program enables travelers to navigate through security without having to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets, emphasizing efficiency while maintaining security standards. With the recent policy changes, more travelers might soon benefit from not having to remove shoes while going through standard screening lines, provided they pass through without triggering any alarms. The TSA, in its statements, has emphasized a commitment to exploring innovative ways to enhance traveler experiences and security practices. They maintain that any updates to security processes will be communicated through official channels. The adaptation appears to stem from an increasing context that reflects changing perceptions about security threats in modern air travel and the need to balance rigorous safety measures with a user-friendly approach. As this pilot program unfolds, the potential for similar changes to be rolled out across more U.S. airports in the near future remains a possibility.