Canada has lifted the enhanced security measures that were previously imposed on passengers traveling to India. These measures, which were introduced due to safety concerns, were removed on Thursday, according to Transport Minister Anita Anand’s office, as reported by CBC News.
The additional screening measures had been in place since at least last weekend, with Minister Anand citing “an abundance of caution” as the reason for their implementation. Passengers flying to India had been informed by Air Canada over the weekend that security wait times were expected to be longer than usual due to heightened security mandates. The airline advised travelers to arrive at least four hours before their flight’s departure to minimize disruptions.
On Monday, Air Canada confirmed that the Canadian government’s Transport Canada had introduced extra requirements for travelers to India, and the airline was complying with these regulations.
Meanwhile, Toronto Pearson Airport had warned on Sunday that passengers might experience longer wait times at international pre-board screening, urging travelers to check with their airline and allow extra time for their flights.
The enhanced security measures had been triggered by a video released in October by the secessionist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), which called for a boycott of Air India flights, citing safety concerns. The group had published a list of Air India flights and routes to “target” between November 1 and 19. Following this, India’s High Commission in Ottawa raised the issue with the Canadian government, leading to the additional security measures for Air India flights.