Dec. 29, 2009, Toronto – Lineups for U.S. flights at Toronto's Pearson International Airport are moving but at times today have stretched down long corridors far from the check-in counters.
The cause, according to an Air Canada agent, is many passengers having to re-pack their luggage right at the check-in counters to comply with the new no carry-on rule.
Agents say even some people with large purses are being sent back by U.S. customs agents.
Many of those in line seem unaware of the no carry-on rule just announced by Transport Canada.
Only small purses, laptops and a small list of items including medical supplies are being allowed, and all rolling bags must be checked.
Two agents say this morning saw huge lineups, contrary to what an official with the airport authority told The Canadian Press.
The new security restrictions were adopted after a man tried to blow up an airliner bound for Detroit on Christmas Day.
RCMP officers have been brought in to help with secondary searches of U.S.-bound passengers at some major Canadian airports.
U.S.-bound passengers must pass three levels of security, regular pre-flight passenger screening, U.S. Customs, and additional screening that can include pat-downs.
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