OFFICIALS at the Transportation Security Administration have spoken out as rumors swirl that a long-standing airport rule is being phased out.
For decades, removing shoes before walking through scanning machines has been the norm.
Rumors are swirling that TSA’s long-standing rule on shoes could be about to change[/caption]
Travelers in Miami airport are warned they must remove their footwear[/caption]
Travelers have scrambled as they rush to put their belongings in boxes while security agents bark orders at them.
The rule has been in place since 2006, but it could become a relic of the past.
Ex-TSA agent Caleb Harmon-Marshall claimed in a Substack post that the rule is being ended for all travelers.
“This would be one of the biggest changes to TSA screening in over a decade and could dramatically reshape the airport experience as we know it,” he claimed.
The speculation has sparked a flurry of discussion.
TSA officials have since spoken out on the rumors, but didn’t appear to confirm, nor deny a change could be on the horizon.
“TSA and DHS are always exploring new and innovative ways to enhance the passenger experience and our strong security posture,” a spokesperson told The U.S. Sun.
“Any potential updates to our security process will be issued through official channels.”
Sources have told CBS News the security change is being rolled out gradually.
And, the new shoes-on policy is apparently being trialed at airports, including Fort Lauderdale, Portland, and Baltimore/Washington.
Travelers in LaGuardia airport in New York told the outlet they could keep their footwear on.
Rami Calis, a podiatry instructor, shared tips for travelers heading through security, per WebMD.
She suggested travelers should wear socks and carry disposable wipes so those who are barefoot can wipe their feet.
Passengers have also been recommended to carry disposable footwear.
Not all travelers have to take their shoes off when they are at the airport.
Those who have subscribed to the TSA PreCheck service can keep their shoes and belts firmly on.
Laptops can stay in bags and travelers do not need to take their jackets off.
TSA chiefs revealed the application process for PreCheck takes less than five minutes online.
And, most applications are processed within a five-day window, according to the agency.
TSA offers free PreCheck screening to those who have served in the military.
Shoes are screened for explosives when they are removed at security.
In 2001, Richard Reid, who was known as the shoe bomber, hid explosives in his footwear.
He was on board an American Airlines plane that was heading from Paris to Miami.
Reid tried to detonate his homemade shoes on board the plane but was unable to do so.
The aircraft was diverted to Boston-Logan airport and Reid was arrested.
In October 2002, he was given a life sentence after pleading guilty to eight terror charges.
What benefits do TSA PreCheck subscribers enjoy?
TSA offers a PreCheck service that means some travelers will have a different experience at airport security.
It means that they do not have to remove certain items from themselves or belongings.
These items include:
- Shoes
- Jackets
- Belts
- Laptops
Since 2006, travelers have had to remove their shoes before they go through security, but it has been reported the long-standing rule could be phased out.
