The Real ID deadline has passed, and compliant IDs are now required in order to board domestic flights. As of this afternoon, nothing seems to be out of the ordinary so far at Boston Logan Airport.
I honestly didn’t know what to expect today, but I’m happy to have seen smooth operations in every terminal at Logan.
In every terminal, they had staff specifically asking passengers for their Real ID before entering the TSA checkpoint. They take a quick look at their ID and let them through. Aside from that, everything was the same with no long lines and no large crowds. I’m reading the same to be the case throughout the US, with smooth airport operations so far.
I only noticed one lady getting flagged for not having a Real ID, to which I overheard the TSO say “Make sure you have your passport next time,” and let them through.
I’m sure every case is different, but it doesn’t seem to be a rigorous, additional hour spent at TSA even if you don’t have a Real ID. However, I still recommend being prepared.
For passengers who do have a Real ID, it doesn’t seem to be any different going through TSA today than it was before the deadline.
My Thoughts
There was a lot of talk about what today was going to be like in terms of airport operations. Many of us, including me, were afraid of massive TSA lines and slow moving crowds at airports with all the additional screenings that potentially could take place.
To TSA’s credit, the checkpoints that I observed were well staffed. Checking for Real IDs before passengers enter the checkpoints is also a good idea, since identifying non-compliant passengers beforehand keeps the actual security line moving smoothly.
Today is a Wednesday, meaning a good number of flyers today are business travelers. I do wonder what it’ll be like on a weekend or once summer travel begins. For now though, Boston Logan Airport is operating normally, and other airports around the country seem to be doing so as well. This is good news.
All photos taken by the author.
