REAL ID issues at airports: Not much, officials say, but experts give warning
As airports around the country implement REAL ID enforcement with relatively few issues, experts are predicting that this peace may not last. Despite reports of smooth operations at airports like George W. Bush Intercontinental and Houston-Hobby in Texas, aviation experts are warning that challenges may arise in the future.
According to Houston’s airports authority, Texas has been issuing REAL IDs for nine years, with 90% of the population already compliant. Similarly, the Port Authority, which oversees airports in the New York City area, reported no issues at JFK, La Guardia, or Newark-Liberty.
A Fox News producer at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey was able to navigate security without any problems. Passengers who are not yet REAL ID compliant were given information as part of the rollout phase. Moving to Philadelphia, officials reported a smooth REAL ID Day with checkpoint lines flowing smoothly and TSA staff on hand to assist passengers.
Miami International Airport also reported normal traffic at checkpoints, attributing their success to a year-long partnership with the TSA to educate passengers about the REAL ID deadline. Charlotte-Douglas in North Carolina saw average wait times of 10 minutes, while Hartsfield-Jackson International in Atlanta and Boston-Logan reported smooth operations.
While the initial rollout of REAL ID enforcement has been relatively smooth, former pilot Ryan Tseko warns that challenges may arise in the future. Tseko predicts potential bottlenecks at airports and expects calls to delay full implementation as issues begin to surface.
As the aviation industry adjusts to the new REAL ID requirements, it remains to be seen how smoothly operations will continue. With experts warning of potential challenges ahead, airports are preparing for any issues that may arise. Stay tuned for updates on the impact of REAL ID enforcement on air travel.
