Just recently WestJet announced that, in cooperation with the United States Transportation Security Administration, Canadian Air Transport Security Authority and Transport Canada, new enhanced security screening measures will be in place at Canadian airports. Apparently these new security measures have been active since December 25^th, 2009 and will remain in effect until January 4^th, 2010.

During this time, all WestJet guests on flights bound to the United States will continue to be subject to secondary searches. This does include a physical pat down search and a hand search off carry on baggage. On top of this, the amount of carry-on items has been restricted. Again these new security measurements are in effect until January 4^th, 2010, but could be subject to change without notice.

Passengers that are flying with WestJet are being advised that all carry-on baggage is prohibited on United States-bound flights. Of course, there are exceptions for certain items. However, these restrictions are not just for WestJet passengers but for all passengers that are looking to fly into the United States.

The enhanced security screening process may continue to result in a lot of delayed departures and even some cancellations. If travelers will be flying into the United States, WestJet does suggest that all passengers should arrive at the airport three hours before the flight is scheduled to leave.

Lately, due to the would-be terrorist attack, airlines are having to crack down on security for flights heading to the United States. Airlines that do not follow new rules are apparently not allowed to fly into the United States-based airports.