For what it's worth, I recount the experience of a close friend who flew from Fort Lauderdale to LaGuardia airport in New York on American Airlines. Somehow, unfortunately, on the ride to the airport he lost his wallet, including his driver's license and credit cards.
When he arrived at the airport, he was quite certain he would not be allowed to fly. No ID.
However, upon arriving at the American Airlines ticket counter and telling the agent his tale of woe--and expecting to be turned away...
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... the agent said, "Oh no, sir. You don't need any identification to board the plane. They'll just pat you down and open your bag."
Which is precisely what happened. My friend breezed through security with a quick "wanding," a cursory patdown, and a quick inspection of his carryon.
That was it.
Maybe no one cares. I hardly know any more. But it struck him--and me--as odd, to say the least.