TSA lets passengers keep shoes on at U.S. airport security

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – The Department of Homeland Security says TSA will allow passengers traveling through domestic airports to keep their shoes on while passing through security screening at checkpoints.

“We have started a new, no-shoes policy with the department. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will no longer require travelers to remove their shoes when they go through our security checkpoints,” said Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.

Passengers can now keep their shoes on at all TSA security checkpoints, local flyers say it’s a sign of relief.

“So it actually helps me out a lot that I don’t have to take my shoes off.
But I fly just about every other week, so it’s very convenient,” said frequent flyer Jarvis Wilson.

According to TSA, the ‘shoes‑off’ travel policy is being lifted thanks to an advanced multilayered security system.

The TSA first implemented the no-shoes policy in 2006, nearly 20 years ago, and in that time, security technology has evolved.

“And it seemed to go quicker going through because people like stopping to tie their shoes and then put the shoes back on on the other side once they go through the checkpoint,” said frequent flyer Carl Albritton.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem says security remains their top priority while maintaining the same standard of security for passengers.

“Many, many people will be on airlines traveling in and out of our airports, and it’s important that we find ways to keep people safe, but also streamline and make the process is much more enjoyable for every single person,” said Noem.

Passengers say that with the new rules, they still feel safe.

“I know it’s for the security of us as travelers and the passengers on the planes,” said Wilson.

The TSA says that some exceptions may apply and may ask you to remove your shoes for additional screening if necessary.

“If we think there are additional layers of screening that is necessary, that may still happen to an individual,” said Noem