US Homeland Security ends shoes-off policy in airports

NEW YORK —The US Department of Homeland Security has officially ended the "Shoes-Off" policy that was implemented after the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced that the policy aims to improve the travel experience and reduce wait times at security checkpoints.

“Ending the ‘Shoes-Off’ policy is the latest step by the Department of Homeland Security to modernize and enhance the travel experience at airports nationwide,” she said.

New technologies and a multi-layered security approach will be implemented to ensure the safety of all airports in the United States.

“We expect this will help speed up the process at TSA checkpoints, resulting in a smoother and more efficient travel experience. As always, security remains our top priority. With advanced technology and a multi-layered security system, we are confident this change can be implemented while maintaining the highest safety standards. This is one of many initiatives being advanced by the Trump administration to realize the President’s vision for a New Golden Age of Travel in America,” said Noem.

Although shoe removal is no longer required, other parts of the TSA security process will remain in place, such as identity verification, Secure Flight vetting, and other essential steps.

The end of the “Shoes-Off” policy is part of a broader series of changes implemented by DHS under the Trump administration. On July 2, the TSA launched the “Serve with Honor, Travel with Ease” program, offering benefits to uniformed service members and their families—including discounts on TSA PreCheck enrollment and access to expedited lanes at select airports.

In May, TSA also began enforcing the REAL ID requirement at airport checkpoints, achieving a 94 percent compliance rate—significantly contributing to a faster and more secure screening process.—AOL, GMA Integrated News