New Airport Security Measures Go Into Effect

New "security interviews" to begin for fliers on U.S. bound flights.

• By Sydny Shepard
• Oct 26, 2017

A set of new airport security measures go into effect on Thursday, October 26 after a 120-day grace period for U.S. bound flights, part of an effort by the Department of Homeland Security to scrutinize electronics brought onboard commercial airliners.

Travelers on international flights may face longer check-in and boarding lines as the new requirements kick in, which according to some airlines include new "security interviews" for all passengers heading to the United States as well as strict rules for which electronics are allowed on board.

The news of security interviews at check-in or boarding gates sparked concerns over flight delays and extended processing time as it will affect 325,000 airline passengers on about 2,000 commercial flights arriving daily in the United States on 180 airlines from 280 airports in 105 countries.

The U.S. announced the new rules in June to end its restrictions on carry-on electronic devices on places coming from 10 airports in eight countries in the Middle East and North Africa in response to unspecified threats. Those restrictions were lifted in July, but the Trump administration said it could reinstate the measures on a case by case basis if airlines and airports did not boost security.

Many airports around the world are asking customers to show up early and read security guidelines before they come to ensure they don't bring any restricted items.