U.S. Bound Travelers from Mexico and Canada Air Travel Screening Requirements
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that starting on July 29, 2017, new enhanced screening measures will be in place. The additional screening applies to all US bound travelers who board flights in Mexico and Canada, regardless of citizenship.
The new air travel security measures will be required at approximately 280 airports around the world. Any electronic devices larger than a smartphone must be charged and removed from its protective cover inspection.
The new air travel screening measures include
- Enhanced overall passenger screening
- Increased screening of personal electronic devices
- Increased security protocols around aircraft and in passenger areas
- The use of advanced technology
- Expanded canine screening
- Establishment of additional pre-clearance locations
- Electronic device inspections
.
As it did with the US bound flights, new requirements may be imposed upon airports or airlines that do not comply by the deadline.
Due to the new screening measures, Air Canada and WestJet advise US bound passengers to arrive at their departure gate at least two hours prior to departure. This is to make sure travelers have enough time to comply with the security measures and board their flights on time.
In March 2017, the United States Transportation Security Administration ended baggage and travel restrictions that required travelers from certain Muslim countries on direct US bound flights. Those restrictions included the requirement to check electronic devices larger than smartphones as checked baggage.
Then in June 2017, with an executive order, DHS announced a 90-day travel ban on travelers from Libya, Syria, Iran, Somalia, Yemen, and Sudan. The ban applies to all US bound travelers unless they could prove a close relationship with a US citizen.
