If you’ve breezed through a U.S. airport security line recently, you might’ve noticed a game-changing shift: no more scrambling to remove your shoes. As of July 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officially ended its nearly two-decade-long shoe removal requirement, making travel less of a hassle. This change, driven by advanced technology and evolving security needs, is a win for passengers. Let’s unpack the history behind the old rule, why it’s gone, and what cutting-edge tech means for your next trip.
The Shoe Bomb That Changed Everything
The shoe removal policy traces back to a single, infamous incident. In December 2001, Richard Reid, dubbed the “Shoe Bomber,” tried to detonate plastic explosives (PETN) hidden in his sneakers on a Paris-to-Miami flight. Passengers stopped him, but the attempt exposed a vulnerability: shoes could conceal non-metallic threats that early metal detectors couldn’t catch. By 2006, the TSA mandated shoe removal for most travelers, except those in TSA PreCheck, kids under 12, or adults over 75.
The policy spread globally, with countries like Canada and Australia adopting similar rules, turning shoe removal into a universal travel ritual.For years, the process was a pain point. Shoes could hide small amounts of explosives or prohibited items in soles, linings, or heels, and older X-ray machines weren’t reliable enough to screen them while worn. Removing shoes allowed for X-ray scans, explosive trace detection (ETD) swabs, or manual checks, but it slowed lines, frustrated families, and left travelers shuffling barefoot on cold floors. Despite complaints, the rule stuck—until now.
TSA’s Big Shift: Shoes Stay On
On July 7, 2025, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced that the TSA would no longer require shoe removal at U.S. airport checkpoints, effective nationwide. The only catch? Travelers without a REAL ID or those flagged for extra screening might still need to remove shoes. Reported first by Gate Access, this change reflects confidence in new technology and a reassessment of risks, with no major shoe-related threats since Reid’s 2001 attempt.
The decision aims to slash wait times—currently averaging 27 minutes—and enhance the traveler experience, especially with major events like the 2028 Olympics looming. Caleb Harmon-Marshall, a former TSA officer, says modern scanners can detect threats through shoes, making removal outdated. “This is a huge relief for passengers,” he notes, predicting faster lines and less stress. Airports like LaGuardia and Philadelphia started phasing out the rule early, signaling a smoother future.
The Tech Making It Possible
So, what’s behind this change? Advanced technology is transforming airport security, reducing the need for manual checks:
- Computed Tomography (CT) Scanners: These create 3D images of luggage and shoes, pinpointing explosives with high accuracy. Airports like Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson are expanding CT use, with the TSA aiming to equip all major U.S. hubs by 2030.
- Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT): Millimeter-wave and backscatter X-ray scanners detect non-metallic threats on the body, including in shoes, eliminating the need for removal.
- AI and Machine Learning: AI boosts scanner accuracy, flagging potential threats in real-time. Trials at global hubs like Singapore’s Changi Airport in 2024 show AI’s potential to streamline screening.
- Explosive Trace Detection (ETD): Used widely in Europe, ETD swabs check shoes for chemical residues without removal, though they can trigger false positives.
- REAL ID Enforcement: Since May 2025, REAL ID adds identity verification, enhancing overall security and supporting the relaxed shoe policy.
What Travelers Need to Know
The end of mandatory shoe removal is a big win, but here’s how to navigate the new normal:
- Where It Applies: The policy is nationwide, though equipment varies. Smaller airports may still require removal if lacking advanced scanners.
- Exceptions: No REAL ID or flagged for screening? Be ready to remove shoes.
- TSA PreCheck Perks: For $77–$85 over five years, PreCheck lets you keep belts, jackets, and laptops in bags, further speeding up the process.
- Smart Packing: Opt for slip-ons for ease, but avoid flip-flops—secure shoes are safer in emergencies. Keep socks handy for rare secondary screenings.
The Future of Security
Looking ahead, the TSA is testing “no-touch” checkpoints for 2026, where passengers may walk through without removing items or interacting with officers. The International Air Transport Association predicts that by 2030, half of major airports will use CT scanners and AI, potentially making shoe removal a relic globally. For now, enjoy keeping your shoes on—it’s a small step toward stress-free travel.