WASHINGTON — A major change in airport security is taking effect immediately nationwide, and it’s good news for Southern Maryland travelers: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced Tuesday, July 8, that airline passengers will no longer be required to remove their shoes at TSA checkpoints.
The change is expected to significantly reduce wait times at domestic airports, including Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) — two of the busiest hubs for travelers from Charles, Calvert and St. Mary’s counties.
“Ending the ‘shoes-off’ policy is the latest effort DHS is implementing to modernize and enhance traveler experience across our nation’s airports,” said Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. “We expect this change will drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience.”
TSA officials say the change is made possible by modern security technologies and a continued multi-layered screening process. Passengers are still required to complete identity verification, Secure Flight vetting and other standard procedures.
For Southern Maryland residents who often face long drives to major airports, the updated policy could make the travel experience more convenient — especially during the busy summer travel season.
The policy change follows several other travel-related updates from the Trump administration. On July 2, TSA rolled out its “Serve with Honor, Travel with Ease” program, which offers military families discounts on TSA PreCheck enrollment and expedited screening at select airports. In May, TSA implemented new REAL ID verification rules at checkpoints, reporting a 94% compliance rate nationwide.
The “shoes-off” requirement began in August 2006, implemented by TSA in response to British national Richard Reid’s attempted bombing of a transatlantic flight in December 2001 using explosives hidden in his shoes. For nearly two decades, the rule became one of the most visible post-9/11 security measures.
“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,” Noem added.
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