TSA to make changes to its shoe screening policy

(NBC, KYMA/KECY) - A major shift appears to be coming to the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) concerning travelers' shoes at security check points.

A senior government official tells NBC News the agency will allow passengers at select airports to keep their shoes on when going through airport security as part of a test program.

The same source says the tweaking of the rules could expand nationwide in the near future. However, the TSA has not announced that move formally.

In a press release Monday, the agency said it is "exploring new and innovative ways to enhance the passenger experience and our strong security posture."

The TSA permanently instituted a shoe removal rule for passengers in 2006, following Richard Reid's failed attempt to ignite a shoe bomb on a flight in 2001.

The TDS's fee-based PreCheck service does allow members to forego that rule.

To be clear, travelers should expect to continue removing their shoes at security check points at least for now.