The good news?
As the result of enhanced security measures now in place for travel to the United States, the ban on carry-on laptops and other electronic devices from certain airports could soon be lifted.
Due to concerns about an undisclosed terrorist threat, a laptop ban has been in place since March for non-stop flights traveling to the U.S. from 10 airports in the Middle East and Africa, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.
The bad news?
Canadian passengers headed to the U.S. will have to arrive at the airport even earlier than suggested, due to the long lines expected as the result of enhanced security measures.
On June 28, the Department of Homeland Security posted a press release on its website that reads in part:
“In light of evaluated intelligence, Secretary of Homeland Security John Kelly has determined it is necessary to implement enhanced security measures for all commercial flights to the United States. These measures, both seen and unseen, include enhanced screening of passengers and electronic devices as well as heightened security standards for aircraft and airports.” Kelly called aviation the “crown jewel target" for terrorists and recommended governments need to "raise the global baseline of aviation security."
Increased security will affect:
Countries: 105
Airports: 280 (approximate number as it will vary based on seasonal airports)
Total airlines: 180
Average daily flights: 2,100
Passengers: 325,000 average daily passengers
The enhanced security measures include, but are not limited to:
Enhancing overall passenger screening
Conducting heightened screening of personal electronic devices
Increasing security protocols around aircraft and in passenger areas
Deploying advanced technology
Expanding canine screening
Establishing additional preclearance locations
All electronic devices larger than a smartphone will have to be removed from protective casing and fully charged for potential inspection
@sthomas10
