For many air travellers, removing shoes at airport security has long been one of the more frustrating parts of the screening process. However, change is on the horizon—not just in the United States, where the policy first gained traction after 9/11, but also in Canada.
Following a major update from the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which announced it will no longer require passengers to remove their shoes at airport checkpoints, Canada is preparing to align its policies, especially in airports with U.S. pre-clearance facilities.
Let’s break down what this means for Canadian travellers, how it will impact airport screening, and why this shift could signal a broader modernization of airport security.
Why the Change?
The TSA’s decision to drop the shoes-off requirement is rooted in advancements in security technology. Over the past few years, U.S. airports have been gradually installing new scanning systems that can detect prohibited items with greater accuracy, without the need to remove shoes, laptops, or even liquids.
These new tools, such as Computed Tomography (CT) scanners and advanced body imaging, provide detailed 3D images of a passenger’s belongings. They allow security agents to inspect shoes without requiring them to be taken off, saving time while maintaining high safety standards.
For Canada, which works closely with the U.S. on cross-border security, this update was a clear sign to follow suit, especially in airports that host U.S. customs pre-clearance zones.
How Does Screening Work in Canada Today?
Unlike in the U.S., Canada has never enforced a universal shoes-off policy. At most Canadian airports, travellers are allowed to keep their shoes on unless specifically instructed otherwise by security personnel.
However, for passengers travelling to the United States from select Canadian airports, the story is different. These travellers pass through U.S. customs and security before boarding, in what’s known as a U.S. pre-clearance zone. In these areas, TSA procedures apply—and until now, that included mandatory shoe removal.
This change comes as part of a wider modernization of the travel experience in Canada, similar to how Canada Day celebrations are evolving to reflect more community-based and inclusive festivities across the country.
Canada’s Response: Aligning with the U.S.
Transport Canada has confirmed that it will coordinate with the TSA to ensure consistency in screening standards. The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) is already upgrading equipment, including CT scanners, in major airports like Toronto Pearson, Vancouver International, Calgary, and Montreal-Trudeau.
Soon, passengers flying to the U.S. from these airports will no longer need to remove their shoes—unless, of course, their footwear raises security concerns.
What About Domestic and International Flights?
For domestic and international flights (excluding the U.S.), the impact will be minimal. That’s because the shoes-off policy wasn’t widely enforced in these cases to begin with.
Still, as advanced screening tools continue to roll out, Canadian travellers may also see fewer requirements to remove laptops, liquids, and other items, helping make the overall process smoother.
This move aligns with broader trends in Canadian travel and lifestyle, like howMcDonald’s Canada is adapting its menu to reflect global tastes while embracing homegrown favorites, showing how even long-standing systems can adapt to changing times.
Benefits for Travellers
The end of the shoes-off policy is more than just a procedural change—it could improve the travel experience for millions. Here’s how:
- Faster Security Lines: Removing the need to take off and put on shoes helps speed up the screening process.
- Less Stress: Especially for families, seniors, or those with disabilities, skipping this step makes for a more relaxed airport experience.
- Improved Accessibility: Reduces physical strain for passengers with mobility challenges.
- Cross-Border Consistency: Makes travel between Canada and the U.S. more predictable and hassle-free.
What’s Next?
This change is just one part of a broader airport modernization plan. Canadians can look forward to:
- Wider adoption of CT scanners at major airports.
- Moretrusted traveller lanes for faster, more convenient screening.
- Better alignment with U.S. airport proceduresmakesg international travel smoother.
While no specific timeline has been released for full implementation, officials suggest it could happen soon, especially in U.S. pre-clearance areas.
Final Thoughts
As air travel continues to rebound and evolve post-pandemic, smoother, smarter security processes are becoming a priority. Canada’s decision to align with the TSA’s shoes-off policy shift marks a welcome step toward more efficient travel.
While airport security may never be effortless, removing outdated practices like mandatory shoe removal is progress worth noting. For Canadian travellers, it means fewer delays, less confusion, and one less thing to worry about before takeoff.
