One of the annoying parts of flying in the US is over
"Shoes on or off?" is a familiar question for anyone travelling through airport security.
There are different airport security rules depending on the country you're in. Some are completely relaxed, others scan shoes above the ankle, while the strictest want them deposited into the tray along with the change, wallets and carry-on bags.
But all that is set to change, at least for those in the US.
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There may be a change to security screenings in the US. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Travellers racing to catch a flight at US airports no longer are required to remove their shoes during security screenings, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said.
Shoes can stay on, as long as the passenger has a REAL ID. This is a federally accepted form of identification, like a US state-issued driver's licence or ID card, or a passport.
Noem said a pilot program showed the Transportation Security Administration had the equipment needed to keep airports and aircraft safe while allowing people to keep their shoes on.
While shoe removal no longer is standard procedure, some travellers still may be asked to take off their footwear "if we think additional layers of screening are necessary," she added.
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Hopefully the change will speed up security lines. Getty
The security check on shoes was implemented after Richard Reid, aka the "Shoe Bomber", hid homemade bombs in his footwear in 2001.
His attempt to blow up American Airlines Flight 63 from Paris to Miami failed.
ESTA fee to double under new bill
Meanwhile, the cost of travel to the US is set to double thanks to President Trump's new "big beautiful bill".
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The ESTA fee is set to double. PA Images via Getty Images
There will be an increase in the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) fee from $21 USD to $40 USD, bringing the cost to $61 for Aussie travellers.
An ESTA is generally valid for two years or until your passport expires, allowing for multiple entries.
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Check your passport before you head to the airport. Nine
No specific date has been announced for the price hike of the visa waiver application, though it's expected to come into effect ahead of the US co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The US Travel Association noted that the extra funds will go toward improved Customs and Border Protection and air traffic control that will make travel smoother and easier for passengers.
This article originally appeared on Stuff and was republished with permission.
