Brazil airports tighten up US-bound passenger checks

The passengers headed for the US from Brazil airports are being subjected to stricter checks before getting on board in compliance with a decision by the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC).

In addition to the inspection by airport agents in the boarding area, carriers will tighten up travelers' hand luggage inspections, especially electronic devices, like cell phones, laptops, and tablets.

The rule turned one year old Tuesday (18), and was strengthened, ANAC reported. The security measure was imposed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), a US organization aimed at fighting terrorism through air security.

The press office of the International Airport of Brasília announced that the inspection is conducted both for domestic and international flights. “In addition to the checks on random passengers, electronic equipment, such as laptops and tablets, will go through explosive detectors,” he said.

Carrier LATAM, which has flights bound for the US, recommends that passengers arrive three hours in advance in order to avoid problems, adding that whoever refuses to undergo security checks will be prevented from boarding the plane.

Translated by Fabrício Ferreira