TSA Quietly Phasing Out Shoe Removal Rule at Some Airports
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) appears to be relaxing its long-standing shoe removal requirement at select airports, marking a potential shift in post-9/11 security protocols. While not officially confirmed, multiple reports suggest the change is underway.
Key Developments
- A government source told CNN the TSA is phasing out the rule, though the agency has not issued formal guidance.
- The White House Press Secretary called it “big news” in a social media post, signaling high-level awareness of the change.
- Syracuse’s Hancock International Airport reportedly stopped enforcing shoe removal Monday, while Chicago O’Hare maintained the requirement Tuesday—indicating a staggered rollout.
Why the Change?
The shoe rule traces back to two major incidents:
- 2001 “Shoe Bomber” Plot: Richard Reid attempted to detonate explosives in his shoes mid-flight.
- 2006 Liquid Bomb Threat: Intelligence warnings led to the TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule—and solidified shoe screening as standard.
TSA PreCheck members (who undergo background checks) have long been exempt, suggesting risk-based security is evolving further.
What’s Next?
The TSA’s statement emphasized that “any updates will be communicated officially,” leaving travelers in limbo. If fully implemented, the move could:
✔ Speed up security lines
✔ Follow trends in automated screening tech (e.g., advanced CT scanners)
✔ Reflect updated threat assessments