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The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) now mandates that migrants lacking sufficient ID undergo facial recognition checks to board domestic flights. This move comes amid ongoing concerns from Republicans and others about security measures.
Fox News Digital was informed by the TSA that all adult travelers, including noncitizens awaiting immigration proceedings in the U.S., must show valid ID to enter airport secure areas.
A spokesperson explained that if a noncitizen doesn’t have the necessary ID, they must face additional screening and facial recognition to confirm their identity using Department of Homeland Security (DHS) records.
This policy update, according to the TSA, is recent and not triggered by any specific security threat. Those who refuse the technology or cannot be matched with DHS records will not be allowed to board.
The Associated Press first reported this policy change, noting that advocacy groups learned migrants were turned away in South Texas.
The issue of migrants flying has sparked controversy amid the crisis at the southern border, with millions released or paroled into the U.S.
Previously, the TSA allowed migrants to use civil arrest warrants and deportation orders as boarding documents. TSA and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) also use the CBP One app for identity verification, ensuring individuals are vetted and processed by DHS. However, there were reports of individuals being allowed to decline photo-taking at airports.
The CBP One app helps process migrants at entry points by allowing them to upload personal information, photos, and schedule appointments.
Officials stress that the extra vetting process applies to anyone without proper ID, not just migrants.
The Department of Homeland Security aims to prevent individuals posing security or safety risks from accessing secure airport areas or entering the U.S. A spokesman clarified that recent claims about noncitizens having lower security standards for domestic flights are incorrect. Those without proper ID undergo thorough screenings.
Officials also mentioned that individuals identified as threats are detained or investigated further.
Despite these measures, concerns remain among Republicans about the security implications of these practices. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, proposed legislation to restrict airlines at Reagan Washington National Airport from transporting aliens identified through the CBP One Mobile Application.
This report includes contributions from The Associated Press.