TSA Ends Shoe Removal Policy at All U.S. Airports
Travelers at U.S. airports will no longer have to remove their shoes as part of airport security screenings conducted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The new policy is already in effect at all airports nationwide.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced a new policy on Tuesday. The agency says that the new policy will increase hospitality for travelers and streamline the TSA security checkpoint process, leading to lower wait times.
“Ending the ‘Shoes-Off’ policy is the latest effort DHS is implementing to modernize and enhance traveler experience across our nation’s airports,” said Secretary Noem.
“We expect this change will drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience. As always, security remains our top priority,” Noem added. “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.”
Other aspects of TSA’s layered security approach will still apply during the TSA checkpoint process.
In May, TSA began implementation of REAL ID at airport checkpoints which has seen a 94 percent compliance rate which has led to a more efficient security process.