U.S. eases some post-9/11 airport security rules

Twentyfive years after the Sept. 11 attacks reshaped air travel, U.S. authorities are beginning to roll back some longstanding airport security rules. Changes include allowing many travelers to keep their shoes on at screening and expanding limited access to secure gate areas for eligible passengers. The Transportation Security Administration said some PreCheck members can now apply in advance to enter postsecurity areas without a boarding pass under a new program called Gateside. The agency has also expanded the use of newer scanners that can let travelers keep liquids in their bags, although liquid limits still remain in place. The article also notes that aviation security is shifting toward new threats, including drones, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity risks, even as some older post9/11 procedures are reduced. Officials and security experts say the challenge now is balancing convenience, privacy and evolving security needs.