OTTAWA, July 19 (Xinhua) -- U.S.-bound travellers have to face enhanced security measures at all Canadian airports as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security said terrorists are pursuing new attack methods targeting commercial aviation, according to CTV Wednesday.
All Canadian airlines -- Air Canada and WestJet, have advised passengers Wednesday to arrive at airports at least two hours prior to scheduled departures for additional screening.
Air Canada says in an advisory that heightened security introduced by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security beginning Wednesday requires enhanced screening of personal electronic devices such as tablets and laptops.
In addition, all personal electronic devices larger than a smartphone will need to be easily accessible and have all cases and covers removed.
WestJet has posted similar advice, adding the recommendation applies to all flights departing Canada.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said last month that in light of evaluated intelligence it was deemed necessary to implement enhanced security measures for all commercial flights to the United States.
It said these measures would include enhanced overall passenger screening, increased security around aircraft and in passenger areas, the use of advanced technology, and expanded canine screening.
"The United States and the global aviation community face an adaptive and agile enemy," said the department, adding that "terrorist groups continue to target passenger aircraft, and we have seen a spider web of threats to commercial aviation as terrorist pursue new attack methods."
