The United States has officially scrapped the long-standing requirement for airline passengers to remove their shoes during TSA security screenings. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced the policy change Tuesday, stating it is effective immediately at all US airports, BBC reported.

Noem cited advancements in security technology and a “multi-layered” screening approach as key reasons for the decision. Passengers must still remove belts and coats and take out laptops and liquids, though those rules are also under review.

The shoe removal rule was introduced nationwide in 2006 following a 2001 attempted bombing by Richard Reid, who hid explosives in his footwear on a flight to Miami.

Some airports had already begun implementing the change ahead of the official announcement. The move has been welcomed by Airlines for America, which called it a step toward more efficient and secure travel, according to BBC.