It's been a while since I have flown anywhere, but I don't think we check ID at the gate here? So it's not really any better or worse, it's just at a different point in the process.
You might be right. I'll be honest, my approach to airports and flying is to have a few drinks once I get past security and then sleep my way as best I can through the flight. I can't remember if my passport was checked when I boarded on leaving Seattle.
