No more taking off shoes at TSA checkpoints: How did Charlotte passengers react?
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- TSA ends shoe removal rule at airports nationwide, effective immediately.
- Charlotte Douglas Airport adopts policy to reduce traveler wait times.
- DHS credits new technology and layered security for safer, faster screenings.
It’s a new era at airports across the United States.
Travelers are no longer required to remove their shoes during TSA security screenings, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced Tuesday.
The change — which includes Charlotte Douglas International Airport, the world’s sixth-busiest airport — is aimed at speeding up lines and improving the passenger experience. The previous policy had been in place since 2006, though TSA PreCheck members were already exempt.
“Ending the ‘Shoes-Off’ policy is the latest effort DHS is implementing to modernize and enhance traveler experience across our nation’s airports,” Noem said in a press release. “We expect this change will drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience. As always, security remains our top priority. Thanks to our cutting-edge technological advancements and multi-layered security approach, we are confident we can implement this change while maintaining the highest security standards.”
‘Can definitely speed things up’
Charlotte officials began implementing the change Wednesday.
Passengers are now instructed to keep their shoes on while moving through security, while still separating their bulky items and electronics in screening bins.
“It’s gonna move a whole lot quicker,” one traveler said.
Many passengers welcomed the update — saying it not only makes the process more efficient, but gives travelers more freedom with what they wear to the airport.
“Especially if people have on big boots or laces, I think it can definitely speed things up,” another traveler added.
