TSA Expands ‘Families on the Fly’ Rules to All US Airports Immediately

Travelers across the United States 🇺🇸 are seeing big changes at airport security checkpoints this summer. On July 8, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) ended its long-standing “shoes-off” rule, and just days later, the agency confirmed that new “Families on the Fly” rules would be expanded to every U.S. airport. These changes aim to make flying easier for families and reduce the long lines that have frustrated travelers for years.

The most important updates include letting all passengers keep their shoes on, making security less stressful for families with children, and rolling out new technology like facial recognition. These steps are part of a larger effort to modernize airport security while keeping everyone safe.

Why Did the TSA Change Airport Security Rules?

For nearly two decades, travelers in the United States 🇺🇸 had to remove their shoes at airport security checkpoints. This rule started in 2006 after a failed terrorist attack involving explosives hidden in shoes. But as technology improved, many experts and travelers questioned whether the rule was still needed.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem explained the decision to end the policy:

“We expect this change will drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience.”

The TSA also wanted to help families, who often face extra stress at airports. The new “Families on the Fly” rules are designed to let families move through security together, keep children with their parents, and avoid unnecessary pat-downs or separations.

What Are the New ‘Families on the Fly’ Rules?

The “Families on the Fly” program brings several important changes for families traveling with children:

• Children 12 and under can stay with their parents or guardians during screening.
  If a parent or guardian is enrolled in TSA PreCheck®, their children can go through the PreCheck lane with them, making the process faster and less stressful.

• No more separating children from parents.
  Security officers will not separate children from their parents or guardians during the screening process.

• Strollers, baby carriers, and car seats are allowed through checkpoints.
  These items must go through the X-ray machine, but families can keep them with them until that point.

• Fewer pat-downs for children.
  The TSA has changed its procedures to reduce the chance that children will need to be patted down.

• Special help for travelers with disabilities or medical needs.
  Families can call TSA Cares at (855) 787-2227 at least 72 hours before their flight to get extra help at the airport.

These changes are now in effect at all U.S. airports, making it easier for families to travel together without extra stress.

How Do These Changes Affect All Travelers?

The end of the shoes-off policy is not just for families—it helps everyone. Now, all passengers can keep their shoes on during screening, which speeds up the process and makes lines move faster. According to Secretary Noem, this change alone is expected to “drastically decrease passenger wait times.”

The TSA has also started using new technology to make airport security even smoother:

• Facial recognition for identity checks.
  Some airports now use facial recognition to match travelers’ faces with their ID photos. This makes the process faster and less intrusive.

• Automated entry systems.
  At select airports, travelers can walk through turnstiles that open after scanning their face and boarding pass, reducing the need for manual checks.

• Possible changes to liquid rules.
  The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is reviewing the rule that limits liquids to 3.4 ounces, but as of July 2025, this rule is still in place.

REAL ID Enforcement: What Travelers Need to Know

Another big change is the full enforcement of the REAL ID Act, which started on May 7, 2025. To board a domestic flight in the United States 🇺🇸, travelers must now show a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another approved form of identification, such as a valid passport.

TSA reports that about 94% of travelers are already using the right ID, but some confusion remains, especially at airports where the rules are new. Travelers are advised to check their state’s compliance and arrive early, especially during the first few months of enforcement.

For more information on REAL ID and to check if your ID is compliant, visit the TSA’s official REAL ID page.

Step-by-Step Guide for Families at Airport Security (July 2025 and Beyond)

Traveling with children can be stressful, but the new TSA rules aim to make it easier. Here’s what families should do:

1. Arrive Early:
   Because of the new REAL ID rules, it’s smart to arrive at the airport at least 30 minutes earlier than you used to, especially if you’re not sure about your ID.

2. Bring the Right ID:
   Make sure every adult has a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another approved ID, like a passport or enhanced driver’s license.

3. Use TSA PreCheck Lanes:
   If a parent or guardian is enrolled in TSA PreCheck, children 12 and under can go with them in the PreCheck lane. This lane usually moves faster and has fewer screening steps.

4. Keep Shoes On:
   All travelers, including children, can now keep their shoes on during security screening.

5. Prepare Child Equipment:
   Strollers, baby carriers, and car seats are allowed through security but must go through the X-ray machine. Be ready to place these items on the belt.

6. Request Special Help if Needed:
   If anyone in your group has a disability or medical condition, call TSA Cares at least 72 hours before your flight for extra help.

What Do These Changes Mean for Different Groups?

• Families:
  The new rules mean less stress, fewer delays, and a more comfortable experience for parents and children. Kids no longer have to be separated from their parents, and the process is less likely to involve pat-downs or confusion.

• All Travelers:
  Shorter lines and faster screening benefit everyone, not just families. The end of the shoes-off rule and new technology help move people through security more quickly.

• Travelers with Disabilities or Medical Needs:
  The TSA Cares program offers extra help for those who need it, making air travel more accessible.

• Airlines and Airport Staff:
  Airlines support the changes, saying they help flights leave on time and improve customer satisfaction. Nicholas E. Calio, head of Airlines for America, said the changes will “facilitate smooth, seamless and secure travel.”

Background: Why Did the TSA Have These Rules in the First Place?

The shoes-off rule started in 2006 after a failed attempt to hide explosives in shoes. For years, travelers had to remove their shoes at security checkpoints, causing long lines and frustration. But as screening technology improved, experts realized that scanners could now detect threats without needing people to take off their shoes.

The REAL ID Act was passed in 2005 to make identification more secure, but its enforcement was delayed several times. Full enforcement finally began in May 2025, meaning all travelers now need a REAL ID or another approved document to fly within the United States 🇺🇸.

What’s Next for Airport Security?

The TSA and DHS are not stopping with these changes. They are reviewing the rule that limits liquids to 3.4 ounces, and more airports are expected to start using facial recognition and automated entry systems soon. These steps are meant to make travel even faster and safer.

Security experts say that new technology allows the TSA to relax some old rules without making airports less safe. As reported by VisaVerge.com, many experts are “cautiously optimistic” that these changes will keep security strong while making travel easier for everyone.

What If You’re Still Unsure About the New Rules?

If you’re not sure what to expect at airport security, the TSA offers several ways to get help:

• TSA Official Website:
  The TSA website has up-to-date information on all rules and procedures.

• TSA Cares:
  Call 855-787-2227 at least 72 hours before your flight if you need special assistance.

• AskTSA:
  Text 275-872 for quick answers to your questions.

• REAL ID Information:
  Check the TSA website or your state’s DMV site to see if your ID is compliant.

What Are the Main Benefits of the New TSA Rules?

• Faster lines and less waiting:
  The end of the shoes-off rule and the use of new technology mean shorter lines and less time spent at security.

• Less stress for families:
  Parents and children can stay together, and kids are less likely to face confusing or scary screening procedures.

• Better use of technology:
  Facial recognition and automated systems make the process smoother and less dependent on manual checks.

• Clearer rules for ID:
  With REAL ID now enforced, travelers know exactly what documents they need to bring.

What Should Travelers Watch Out For?

• REAL ID confusion:
  Some travelers may still be unsure if their ID is compliant. Check before you travel to avoid problems at the airport.

• Liquid rule still in place:
  The 3.4-ounce liquid rule is under review, but it has not changed yet. Pack your liquids accordingly.

• Technology roll-out varies:
  Not all airports have facial recognition or automated entry systems yet. Be prepared for different procedures at different airports.

Official Statements and Industry Support

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stressed that these changes are about making travel better for everyone:

“We expect this change will drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience.”

Nicholas E. Calio, representing major airlines, welcomed the changes:

“These updates will facilitate smooth, seamless and secure travel.”

TSA Acting Administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill said the agency is ready for record numbers of travelers and is using new technology to improve the experience, especially for families.

Summary Table: Key TSA Changes for Families in 2025

Action Steps for Travelers

• Check your ID:
  Make sure you have a REAL ID or another approved document before you travel.

• Arrive early:
  Give yourself extra time, especially if you’re traveling with children or have special needs.

• Use TSA PreCheck if possible:
  It makes the process faster and easier, especially for families.

• Stay informed:
  Visit the TSA’s official website for the latest updates on airport security rules.

• Ask for help if needed:
  Use TSA Cares or AskTSA for questions or special assistance.

These new TSA rules, including the “Families on the Fly” program, are designed to make airport security less stressful and more efficient for everyone. By following the steps above and staying up to date with official information, travelers can enjoy a smoother, safer, and more family-friendly airport experience.

Learn Today

TSA PreCheck → A TSA program offering expedited screening for pre-approved travelers and their children under 12.
REAL ID → Federal ID standards required for boarding U.S. flights, such as compliant driver’s licenses or passports.
Facial Recognition → Technology that matches travelers’ faces with ID photos for faster airport security verification.
TSA Cares → A TSA service providing special assistance for travelers with disabilities or medical conditions.
‘Families on the Fly’ → A TSA program allowing families with children to maintain closer contact during security screening.

This Article in a Nutshell

TSA’s 2025 updates end shoe removal at security, introduce family-friendly rules, and enforce REAL ID. Facial recognition expedites travel, improving airport efficiency and reducing stress, especially for families with children, while technology and new policies aim to modernize and simplify U.S. airport security for all travelers.
— By VisaVerge.com