TSA Begins Phasing Out Shoe Removal at Security Checkpoints — Policy Change Reaches San Antonio International Airport

SAN ANTONIO, TX – Travelers flying out of San Antonio International Airport (SAT) may now find security screening a little smoother, thanks to a major policy shift from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). As of July 7, 2025, the TSA has begun phasing out its longstanding requirement for most travelers to remove their shoes at airport security checkpoints.

This nationwide change is being gradually implemented and marks a significant departure from a policy in place since 2006. For nearly two decades, passengers were required to remove their shoes before passing through security scanners—a direct response to the 2001 attempted shoe bombing by Richard Reid aboard American Airlines Flight 63.

Why the Change?

TSA officials cite advancements in imaging technology and enhanced threat detection systems as the primary reasons for the shift. These improvements now allow TSA screeners to effectively scan footwear without requiring passengers to remove it, except in specific cases.

What It Means for SAT Travelers

For most passengers at San Antonio International and other select airports, this means:

• No more routine shoe removal at TSA checkpoints.

• Faster lines and shorter wait times, improving the overall passenger experience.

• Fewer differences between standard and PreCheck screening in terms of footwear, though other PreCheck benefits still apply.

However, the TSA advises that those who trigger an alarm during screening may still be asked to remove their shoes for further inspection.

Background on the Policy

The shoe removal rule was originally put into place following the 2001 shoe bombing attempt and became official TSA procedure in 2006. Over the years, critics have questioned the necessity of the rule, particularly as screening technology has advanced and no further shoe-related threats have been reported.

Until now, only TSA PreCheck travelers had consistently been allowed to keep their shoes on during screening. With this policy update, the benefit is extended to nearly all travelers, streamlining the experience across the board.

What’s Next

The rollout began July 7 at a limited number of airports and is expected to expand nationwide in the coming weeks. While not all terminals and airports may have adopted the change yet, San Antonio travelers should start to notice the difference as the transition moves forward.

Frequent flyers are encouraged to monitor TSA.gov or check with airport signage for updates and guidance on what to expect during screening.

This marks a significant shift in the TSA’s approach to balancing security with efficiency, and many passengers—especially those juggling kids, carry-ons, or tight layovers—are welcoming the change with open arms (and shoes on feet).