Why Airports Require Shoe Removal at Security Checkpoints
Airport security shoe removal rules exist primarily to allow clear X-ray imaging of footwear and to reduce the risk of concealed threats. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) introduced mandatory shoe removal at U.S. airports after the December 2001 shoe bomb attempt on a transatlantic flight. Since then, shoe screening has become a standard layer in aviation security worldwide. According to the TSA, officers may ask travelers to remove shoes for additional screening even if they are not selected for secondary inspection. The rule applies to all passengers at most U.S. airports, with limited exceptions for children under 12 and individuals with disabilities who cannot remove shoes easily. The policy balances speed and security, and it remains one of the most visible checkpoints for air travelers.
Globally, shoe removal practices vary by country and airport. Many European, Asian, and Middle Eastern airports require shoe removal as part of standard screening, while some have adopted advanced imaging technology that allows passengers to keep shoes on under certain conditions. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) provides guidance on security screening, but each member state sets its own rules. In recent years, some airports have tested automated threat detection systems that can scan shoes in place, aiming to reduce bottlenecks. The trend is toward smarter screening that uses risk-based protocols rather than blanket shoe removal for every passenger.
Current TSA Shoe Removal Rules and TSA PreCheck Exceptions
Under current TSA procedures, most travelers at U.S. airports must remove shoes and place them in a bin for X-ray screening. The TSA states that officers may require shoe removal at any checkpoint, even for TSA PreCheck members, if the alarm is triggered or if additional screening is needed. TSA PreCheck lanes generally allow eligible travelers to keep shoes on, but this is not guaranteed and depends on the specific airport and checkpoint setup. As of the latest TSA guidance, the program has expanded to over 200 airports, and more than 20 million members are enrolled. The TSA continues to update its procedures based on threat assessments and technology upgrades.
The TSA periodically reviews its shoe screening policies using data from checkpoint operations and security research. In 2023 and 2024, the agency rolled out new CT scanners and automated screening lanes at select airports, which can improve threat detection while reducing the need for shoe removal in some cases. Travelers are advised to check the TSA website or their airline for the most current requirements before flying. The TSA also notes that wearing slip-on shoes can speed up the process if removal is required. For official rules and updates, travelers can visit the TSA's checkpoint procedures page.