Say Goodbye to This Annoying TSA Rule at Michigan Airports

Michigan travelers can rejoice as TSA just announced a major change coming to airports throughout the U.S., including those in the state.

For many years, it felt like we were practically getting undressed just to get through airport security. Hats, jackets, belts, and even our shoes had to come off. Well, thanks to a new rule change, you can scratch one of those items off the list.

According to CNN, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced that passengers going through airport security in the United States will no longer have to take their shoes off.

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Being forced to take off your shoes at security always felt weird. I get why the rule was put in place, but there’s just something about standing in your socks at the airport that feels dirty, gross, and awkward.

This is a big deal, especially since we’ve been taking off our shoes at security since 2006. Funny thing is, I always thought it started right after 9/11, but nope, that wasn’t the case.

When Did the TSA Start Making Us Take Off Our Shoes?

The shoe removal rule became mandatory in August 2006 after Richard Reid, the “shoe bomber,” tried to detonate explosives hidden in his shoes on a flight in 2001. This serious threat led TSA to require everyone to take off their shoes at security checkpoints. Since then, it’s been a part of airport security for almost 20 years

After the 2001 shoe bombing attempt, TSA suggested removing shoes but didn’t require it right away. It took a few years to upgrade security and make the rule official in 2006.

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When Does the New TSA Shoe Rule Take Effect?

The new TSA rule letting you keep your shoes on is rolling out right now. Many airports across the U.S., including those in Michigan, have already started the change, so you might not have to take your shoes off next time you fly.

You still might have to take your shoes off if you get flagged during screening.