Removing Shoes at US Airport Security No Longer Needed

Photo Credits: Condo Nast Traveller

When terrorist Richard Ried unsuccessfully attempted to bomb an American Airlines aircraft in December 2001 by concealing explosives in his shoes, it led to the introduction of the unusual rule requiring passengers to remove their shoes at airport security checks in the United States.  

Now, nearly two and a half decades later, that rule is being revoked.  

According to media reports, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has scrapped the additional security measure that has frustrated travellers for years passing through US airports.  

“We expect this change will drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience,” said Kristi Noem, the Department of Homeland Security Secretary, in a statement. Apart from decreasing the processing time of passengers at airport security, Noem also highlighted advancements in security technology and processes as key reasons for the change. 

“We are very confident that we can continue to provide hospitality to folks and for American travelers and for those visiting our country, while maintaining the same standard of security for passengers and for our homeland,” Noem said at a press conference at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Arlington, Virginia. 

It is worth noting that travellers enrolled in the TSA PreCheck programme, which costs around $80 for five years, were already allowed to bypass steps such as removing the shoes and belts.