The Government of Canada restores carry-on bag allowance for U.S. - bound flights

OTTAWA — Canada’s Transport Minister John Baird today announced that effective Thursday, April 8, airline passengers who are travelling to the United States from Canada will be permitted to bring two carry-on bags and personal items.

“The Government of Canada is unwavering in our commitment to implement the most effective measures possible for a safe and secure aviation system, while upholding a level of comfort and convenience for air travellers,” said Baird. “With more robust air security measures in place for passengers, we are able to remove the temporary carry-on baggage restrictions put into place following the December terrorist attack.”

Following the December 25, 2009 terrorist attack on a flight headed to Detroit, the Government of Canada announced carry-on baggage restrictions for flights to the U.S. in response to newly implemented U.S. security measures.

In addition, the Government of Canada announced new measures to bolster Canada’s aviation system including the introduction of new full body scanners, strengthening explosive trace detection, announcing its intention to develop a passenger behaviour observation program, and new funding to enhance aviation security in Budget 2010.

Passengers are reminded to check with the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (www.catsa.gc.ca) or their airline for items that are allowed in carry-on luggage.

FOR BROADCAST NEWS:

Changes to carry-on luggage restrictions were announced today by Canada's Transport Minister John Baird for flights to the United States. Effective April 8, passengers travelling to the United States are permitted to bring two carry-on bags and personal items. Passengers can check with the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority or their airline for further information.

Contacts:
James Kusie
Director of Issues Management and Parliamentary Affairs
Office of Canada’s Transport Minister
John Baird, Ottawa
613-991-0700

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