Philippine Airlines will start implementing on Thursday enhanced security measures for its United States-bound flights, specifically those from Manila to Los Angeles, San Francisco, Honolulu and Guam, as well as its flights from Vancouver to New York (JFK Airport).
PAL spokesperson Ma. Cielo Villaluna said this is in compliance with the regulatory requirements of the US Department of Homeland Security for all flights operating from the last point of departure to their country.
“PAL advised passengers of US-bound flights to expect a slightly different check-in setup and to allot extra time to arrive early at the airport, preferably three to four hours before flight departure,” said Villaluna.
The airline is also seeking the understanding and kind cooperation of passengers, as it strives to find ways to offer the riding public better, safer and more efficient service.
Late last year, PAL simulated the expanded check-in procedures and heightened security measures at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport for all US-bound passengers.
In July, PAL subjected all portable electronic devices—gadgets larger than a cellphone—of passengers bound for the United States to additional airport screening.
Villaluna said electronic devices that exceed the size limit must be surrendered by passengers to the airline for additional screening at the Redundancy Screening Checkpoint. However, she said necessary medical devices are exempted from additional screening.
Examples of large electronic devices that will be subjected to additional screening are, but not limited to: laptops, tablets, e-readers, cameras, portable DVD players, electronic game units larger than a smartphone, and travel printers and scanners.
Villaluna said passengers must ensure that their large PEDs have sufficient battery charge to power up the device during the additional screening process, and remove their electronic protective casing during inspection.