TSA quietly scraps security check that every passenger dreads
Daily Mail1 day
TSA Phases Out Shoe Removal Rule at Select US Airports
Above: A TSA agent at a checkpoint verifying passenger identification, John Glenn Columbus International Airport. Image copyright: Wikimedia Commons
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
This long-overdue change finally eliminates one of the most hated and ineffective airport security theater policies. The shoe removal rule was always more about appearing tough on security than actually making flights safer, forcing millions of travelers to walk barefoot on dirty airport floors for over two decades. Modern screening technology has advanced enough to detect threats without this humiliating ritual.
Establishment-critical narrative
While streamlining airport security sounds appealing, rolling back established safety protocols raises legitimate concerns about maintaining aviation security standards. The original shoe bomber threat that prompted this policy hasn't disappeared, and relaxing screening procedures could create vulnerabilities that terrorists might exploit. Enhanced technology is helpful, but physical inspection remains a crucial security layer.