Keep shoes on: the latest TSA regulation revolutionizes airport controls!

Keep shoes on: the latest TSA regulation revolutionizes airport controls!

Ronald-Reagan-Flughafen, Washington, USA - The American transport security authority (TSA) has announced a significant innovation in the security controls at airports. From now on, passengers can keep their shoes on during the security check. This regulation, which was presented on July 8, 2025 by the US Minister of Homeland Kristi Noem at the Ronald Reagan airport in Washington, marks the end of a 20-year obligation to take off the shoes. The shoe pulling was introduced in 2006, in response to the attacks on September 11 and the attempted shoe bombing of Richard Reid in 2001.

The aim of this new guideline is to shorten the waiting times at control points and avoid traffic jams, especially under the pressure of rising passenger numbers. From now on, the new rule is gradually used at numerous airports. The first airports that implement this regulation include Baltimore/Washington International, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky, Portland, Philadelphia and Piedmont Triad.

technological progress enable changes

The possibility of refraining from falling out of shoe was made possible by significant progress in security technology. Innovative technologies such as 3D scanners and AI systems have reduced the need for intensive controls. While TSA Precheck participants have benefited from this regulation since 2013, the advantage is now being expanded to all travelers to regular control tracks.

All passengers should note, however, that the exception applies to those who trigger alarm when running through scanners or magnetometers; You may still have to take off your shoes. Regardless of this regulation, other security measures, such as taking out larger electronic devices and the 3-1-1 rule for liquids, remain. TSA invested in modern security technologies to increase efficiency and enable faster processes.

expectations and transition phase

The new freedom of shoe guidelines announces a significant improvement for travelers who are often frustrated with the safety processes at airports. However, it can be expected that different processes can vary depending on the airport and passenger during the transition phase. With this measure, the TSA reacts to the increase in passenger numbers and the need to optimize the safety processes.

The decision to abolish the obligation to exceed the freedom of the shoe is a significant step in the continuous adjustment of the safety protocols of the TSA to the current circumstances. Passengers can look forward to faster processing, even if security controls are still necessary. Like the reports of Merkur and Travel and Tour World strive to improve the passage experience in the coming months.