US homeland security chief says travelers without REAL ID will be allowed to fly
General News,Air Travel,Real ID,TSA,National Security
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said air travelers starting Wednesday who do not have enhanced ID cards may face enhanced security procedures but will not be denied access to flights.
Starting Wednesday, the Transportation Security Administration will no longer accept state-issued identifications that are not REAL ID compliant.
The Reuters Tariff Watch newsletter is your daily guide to the latest global trade and tariff news. Sign up here.
"If it's not compliant, they may be diverted to a different line, have an extra step, but people will be allowed to fly," Noem said at a U.S. House hearing on Tuesday. "This is a security issue."
Related Coverage
AllSides Picks
Headline Roundup
Whistleblower Who Exposed Howard Lutnick's Ties to Epstein Found Dead
October 5th, 2026
Headline Roundup
Which SCOTUS Cases the Media Wants You to Watch and Why
October 5th, 2026
Recommended Reading
A House United: Bring the Film to Your Town
Braver Angels
October 5th, 2026
Recommended Reading
When the Midterm Walls Start Closing In
Dan Schnur
October 5th, 2026