Travelers flying to the United States could see delays at the security gate due to new enhanced security measures.
The new procedures, being introduced by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, went into effect Wednesday.
Tyler MacAfee with the Winnipeg Airports Authority said the changes mean electronic devices larger than a smartphone will be looked at more closely.
“They’re going to take more time. You’re going to need to power on the device,” MacAfee said.
“You’re going to need to show them that it’s working.”
The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority recommended passengers check that devices are charged and can be powered up.
It also suggested travelers ensure any cases on devices can be removed easily, or that passengers remove them beforehand.
Joe Landerville arrived at Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport Wednesday morning to catch a flight to Minneapolis, and eventually Miami.
While Landerville was not aware of the changes to security screening, he wasn't surprised the DHS has taken such measures.
"I think it's the new world order and we just have to get used to it," Landerville said.
"I think it's better to err on the side of caution."
Both Air Canada and WestJet are encouraging passengers flying to the U.S. to arrive at least two hours before their departure.
Kendra Goertzen said she flies through the States regularly, but said she wasn't bothered by the new measures because she makes it a rule to always arrive early.
"I feel like that's just what I've always been taught," she said.
The enhanced security measures will affect 180 airlines in 105 different countries.
