Archive · 12 Sep 2026
US Airport Security Rules Shift 25 Years After 9/11
Airport security rules in the United States are changing 25 years after the 9/11 attacks.
Some people who are not traveling may again be allowed near airport gates in limited circumstances.
The government is also reportedly thinking about allowing travelers to carry water through security more easily.
Passengers no longer have to remove their shoes under the longstanding rule.
These rules were created after terrorist attacks and later security threats.
Officials are reconsidering them because screening machines have improved.
New CT scanners can examine bags in more detail.
Expert Jeff Price said the machines may be better at finding explosives hidden in liquids.
The Transportation Security Administration is restoring limited airport-gate access for people who are not flying.
The Trump administration is reportedly considering relaxing restrictions on carrying water through airport security.
The longstanding requirement to remove shoes ended last year.
Security rules created after 9/11 and later terror plots are being eased or reconsidered.
Newer TSA CT scanners may better detect liquid-based explosives, according to aviation expert Jeff Price.
- Who
- The Transportation Security Administration, the Trump administration, airport passengers and visitors, and aviation expert Jeff Price.
- What
- US airport security rules are being changed, including limited gate access for non-fliers and possible relaxation of water restrictions.
- When
- The changes are being introduced 25 years after the 9/11 attacks; the shoe-removal requirement ended last year.
- Where
- US airports.
- Why
- Improved screening technology, including CT-capable machines, may allow officials to reconsider older security rules.
- Agency
- Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
- Main change
- Limited access to airport gates is returning for people who are not flying.
- Possible change
- The Trump administration is reportedly considering easing restrictions on carrying water through security.
- Previous change
- The longstanding shoe-removal requirement ended last year.
- Technology
- Newer TSA machines use computed tomography (CT) capabilities.
- Security benefit
- Jeff Price said CT machines can do a better job detecting liquid-based explosives.
- Context
- Many of the rules were introduced after the 9/11 attacks and later terror plots.