MIAMI – Travelers at Miami International Airport may notice something missing at security checkpoints: the need to remove their shoes.
The Transportation Security Administration has started phasing out its long-standing rule requiring passengers to take off their footwear during screening — a practice in place for nearly two decades.
The policy began in 2001 following a failed attempt to detonate explosives hidden in a passenger’s shoe mid-flight.
But now, TSA officials say updated imaging systems can detect concealed threats without requiring travelers to remove their shoes.
The new scanners are already operational at more than 25 airports across the country, and more installations are expected in the coming months.
“TSA and DHS are always exploring new and innovative ways to enhance the passenger experience while maintaining strong security,” TSA Florida spokesperson Daniel Velez told Local 10 News on Tuesday.
At MIA, several travelers who recently passed through checkpoints without removing their shoes said the change made the process feel faster and more convenient.
“We think it’s great because most airports you can already do it worldwide,” said Kristoff Desmitz, who was traveling from Belgium. “So it’s quite easy — you just take off your shoes and go.”
“It was the shortest line ever,” added Sicily Matsen, a traveler from Utah. “I don’t know, it was super easy and quick.”
TSA officials and airport staff confirmed the no-shoes policy went into effect at MIA on Monday.
The agency’s goal is to reduce checkpoint wait times, limit the number of bins needed for screening and streamline the overall travel experience — all without compromising safety.