Topline
The Transportation Security Administration has reportedly begun allowing travelers at some airports in the country to complete their pre-flight security screening without removing their shoes, ending a nearly two-decade-long rule.
TSA agents verify passengers identities on a checkpoint at Miami International Airport.
Key Facts
According to several outlets, the TSA has begun implementing the change at several major airports, including New York’s La Guardia and Los Angeles International Airport.
CBS News reported that the rule change is being rolled out in a phased manner, starting with Baltimore/Washington, Fort Lauderdale, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky, Portland, Philadelphia and Piedmont Triad international airports.
The New York Times confirmed the rule change, citing an anonymous source and reported that the TSA started implementing the new procedure in “recent days.”
While the agency has not officially confirmed the move, it told various outlets that the TSA and the Department of Homeland Security are “always exploring new and innovative ways to enhance the passenger experience and our strong security posture.”
The travel newsletter Gate Access was the first to report the internal TSA move over the weekend, which said the White House will officially announce the change in protocol.
The report noted that the TSA has updated its guidance on the matter internally, has begun informing TSA officers nationwide, and is revising its Standard Operating Procedures.