Big Change Coming to Iowa Airport Security: Here’s What to Know

If you've travelled by airplane in the past 19 years, you're likely very well aware of the grind TSA can be.

In Iowa, we do enjoy smaller airports and, usually, shorter TSA lines - but things can still slow way down and back way up.

Well, there may be some relief for air travelers in the form of a little less work needed on the part of travelers when they go through security.

Travelers Can Keep Their Shoes On

The TSA is phasing out the mandatory shoe removal rule for most travelers at select airports, according to a memo sent to TSA officers.

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While Iowa isn't likely to have an airport in the initial batch of phased-out locations, the TSA appears poised to make the change nationwide in the near future.

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Prior to the rule rollback, only travelers using the TSA PreCheck line were able to keep their shoes on through security. TSA PreCheck is a service that passengers must pay for and be screened for in advance, and cannot simply select when they arrive at the airport.

Shoes Off: A Brief History

The rule requiring travelers to remove their shoes was first introduced in 2006 in response to the failed 2001 shoe bomb attempt by Richard Reid.

With travelers no longer being asked to remove their shoes, the hope is that lines will move quickly and more efficiently.

If a traveler raises any alarm at screening, they will be asked to remove their shoes.

Security Made a Little Easier

Once upon a time, it seemed TSA officers were viewed largely as villains, despite only doing their jobs.

While it does feel that sentiment has largely changed, the ending of the shoe removal policy can only increase goodwill from travelers.

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It reduces a time-consuming and often frustrating step for millions of travelers. Think of winters in Iowa and having to remove heavy boots. No fun.

The change reflects the TSA’s effort to balance security and convenience, aiming to preserve safety without unnecessary hassle. I, for one, am thrilled.