The aviation industry is going to make significant changes in the upcoming months. The new airport rules of 2025 are reshaping the way passengers navigate security checkpoints in the US and abroad. From keeping the shoes on at TSA to relaxed liquid restrictions in certain airports, these updates are designed to make travel faster and more comfortable. Since the changes are occurring at different airports at various times, passengers should always check the applicable rules before their next flight.
What Are the New 2025 Airport Rules?
The new rules, including keeping shoes on, changes to liquid policies, and family-friendly lanes, are all meant to make flying less stressful and more convenient. Here’s a complete breakdown of the new rules.
Shoes-Off Policy Comes to an End in the US
One of the biggest changes is that TSA has officially ended the shoes-off policy at security checkpoints nationwide, effective July 2025. Travellers can now usually keep their shoes on when passing through airport security, a move aimed at speeding up the process and improving the passenger experience.
However, these new airport rules 2025 come with a catch. At some locations, passengers may still be asked to remove their shoes due to equipment upgrades, staff training, or unpredictable security protocols. Since TSA purposely keeps rules flexible for safety reasons, passengers should always follow the officer’s instructions and observe what others ahead in line are doing.
Liquids Rule
The second big airport rule 2025 involves liquids.
In Europe, airports like Birmingham and Edinburgh have started allowing liquids up to 2 litres per container in carry-on bags, with no limit on the number of containers. Passengers are not required to place liquids in a clear plastic bag either.
In the United States, the old 3-1-1 rule still applies. Liquids are only allowed in containers of up to 100 ml (3.4 oz), and all liquids must fit inside a single quart-sized bag. While Homeland Security has hinted at future updates to US liquid rules, no official timeline has been announced yet. Until then, flyers should stick to the 3-1-1 rule when flying within or out of the US.
Family Lanes for Easier Travel with Kids
Parents travelling with children under 12 now have some relief because of dedicated family lanes at select airports. This airport’s new rules for 2025, called the Families on the Fly campaign, make it easier for families handling strollers, diaper bags, and car seats to get through security.
Currently, family lanes are available at Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), with more airports expected to follow in the coming year. While this mainly benefits families, it also helps other travellers by reducing delays caused by large family groups in standard lanes.
TSA PreCheck Discounts and Military Benefits
Under the new airport rules 2025, TSA is pushing more travellers to sign up for TSA PreCheck by offering new discounts.
A “Buy 1, Get 1” promotion is running until October 31, 2025. Two people enrolling together at the same location on the same day will receive $15 off the second enrollment fee. The discount applies to first-time enrollments only (not renewals). Family members, friends, coworkers, or travel partners can sign up together.
TSA has also launched the “Serve with Honor, Travel with Ease” program, giving military service members and their families dedicated PreCheck lanes, with discounted or free enrollment options available.
While PreCheck promises faster screening (under 10 minutes), growing enrollment may make lines longer during peak travel times. Passengers should weigh the benefits before signing up.
International Travellers Can Expect Different Airport Rules in 2025 Travellers on international flights need to be aware that the rules may differ significantly from those in the U.S.
- When departing from a non-U.S. airport, it is best to assume that standard security procedures will apply, which often means taking off shoes and adhering to the 3-1-1 liquid rule. However, some European airports like Birmingham and Edinburgh have already relaxed their liquid restrictions.
- International airports generally do not have TSA PreCheck or dedicated family lanes.
Conclusion!
The new airport rules 2025 offer convenience, but not without some inconsistencies. The end of the shoes-off rule in the US, expanded liquid allowances in some European airports, family-friendly lanes, and PreCheck promotions are positive steps toward smoother travel. However, passengers should be prepared for differences between airports, countries, and even individual checkpoints. Staying flexible and following TSA guidance will remain essential for a stress-free journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
The new airport rules 2025 include keeping shoes on at TSA checkpoints, possible future changes to liquid limits, dedicated family lanes, and expanded TSA PreCheck discounts.
As of July 2025, the official policy is that you can keep your shoes on. But some airports may still require it depending on equipment and staff training.
No, US airports still follow the 100 ml (3.4 oz) rule with one quart-sized bag per traveller.
Birmingham and Edinburgh airports currently allow liquids up to 2 litres per container with no limit on the number.
Possibly, but TSA has not announced a timeline since new scanning technology is needed first.
According to the airport’s new rules 2025, two people can enroll together at the same location and time get $15 off the second fee.
Yes, through the Serve with Honor, Travel with Ease program, which offers dedicated lanes and discounted or free enrollment.
No, TSA PreCheck is only valid at participating US airports.