Why do I have to take my shoes off?

Why do I have to take my shoes off?

Nico Melendez (TSA Regional Spokesperson) gives expert video advice on: How can I reduce my wait time at airport security points?; Why do I have to take my shoes off? and more...

A few years ago, we had this person that everyone knows as the Shoe Bomber - Richard Reid. He was flying from Europe to the United States, with an explosive device in his shoe. We know that there are bombs that people can place in their shoes out there. We need to do what we need to do to be able to find them so passengers don't bring them into the security area of the airport and we keep our traveling public safe and secure. That is why you need to take off your shoes at airport security.