Authorities have ramped up security at the Vancouver International Airport in response to an attempted terrorist attack on a Detroit-bound Northwest Airlines flight on Christmas Day.
A number or delays of up to 45 minutes at YVR were reported on Saturday afternoon, and the federal government has ordered additional security checks for all U.S.-bound passengers.
In addition to regular luggage inspections, passengers can expect a mandatory pat-down and an additional hand search of their personal property at the boarding gate.
Travelers are also allowed only one carry-on bag on flights to the U.S.
Notices posted Saturday by Air Canada and WestJet advise passengers to arrive as much as three hours early.
The changes follow the arrest Friday of a Nigerian national who allegedly tried to detonate an explosive aboard the Detroit-bound flight. Passengers thwarted the suspect and the plane landed safely.
Public Safety Minister Peter Van Loan said he spoke with U.S. Homeland Security Deputy Secretary Jane Lute regarding the incident.
"Security threats to the United States are security threats to Canada. The Canadian government remains fully engaged with the Obama administration on efforts to combat terrorist threats," he wrote in a statement.
New rules for on-board conduct
In addition to the pre-flight security measures mandated by the Canadian government, there are new in-flight rules imposed by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration to limit on-board activities by passengers and crew in U.S. airspace.
Air Canada said in a statement that during the final hour of flight passengers must remain seated. They won't be allowed access to carry-on baggage or to have any items on their laps.
Air Canada suggests passengers avoid bringing any carry-on baggage, and only bring on small items such as a purse, laptop bag, briefcase or diaper bag. It says it will waive any extra fees for passengers who must check extra bags due to the new restriction.
"As a result of the added security precautions, passengers should also expect delayed and cancelled flights as well as missed connections," Air Canada wrote in a news release.
Passengers who miss their connections will not be charged to rebook.
Air Canada warned that although these measures only apply to flights into the U.S., domestic and international flights will also be delayed due to airport congestion.
WestJet says these heightened security measures will be in place until Dec. 30, and Air Canada did not specify a date.
For the latest on security measures and delays, visit the YVR website.
