TSA eliminates ‘shoes off’ policy at airport security. Does it apply at KCI?
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- TSA ended its "shoes-off" policy July 8, streamlining airport security checks.
- The policy change applies at the Kansas City Airport, including Guest Pass users.
- Travelers triggering alarms may still face shoe removal and extra screening measures.
Checking in at airports around the United States is easier now, thanks to the removal of one policy.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced July 8 that the Transportation Security Administration has eliminated its “shoes-off” policy, meaning the extra step of taking off your shoes will no longer be required at TSA-operated airports.
Wearing shoes through security was previously reserved for travelers who registered for TSA PreCheck, or young children and seniors.
“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. “We expect this change will drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience.”
Do you need to remove your shoes at Kansas City International Airport?
Kansas City International Airport is a federalized airport with contracted security screening operations, which means the new rules apply, TSA spokesperson R. Carter Langston said in a statement.
A spokesperson for Kansas City International Airport said the change also applies to visitors using the airport’s Guest Pass program.
The program enables anyone interested in visiting the airport to do so without a plane ticket. After passing through security, people can shop, dine, explore the artwork, use other amenities or accompany loved ones inside the terminal before they board for their flight.
Passengers who alarm TSA’s systems will have to remove their shoes and may be subject to additional screening,
“TSA employs random and unpredictable methods to mitigate risks and maintain a strong security post, so there is no guarantee that every passenger in the checkpoint will have the Shoes On experience,” Langston said.
What do I need to get through security at Kansas City airports?
All travelers must present an acceptable government-issued form of identification to get through TSA checkpoints at Kansas City airports. This can be a Real ID or other compliant form of identification. A Real ID, issued by each state, features a gold star in the upper right hand corner.
If a traveler does not have a REAL ID, they can travel with other forms of ID, like a U.S. passport, a permanent resident card, a foreign government-issued passport or a veteran health identification card.
Most TSA checkpoints require screening of carry-on and personal items, as well as body scans or pat downs from security.
The shoes-off policy began in 2006 after an incident in 2001, when Richard Reid attempted to detonate an explosive device built into his shoes on a flight from Paris to Miami. The “shoe bomber” was unsuccessful and detained. Before the policy was changed, all travelers aged 12-75 were required to take their shoes off at TSA checkpoints.
