MONTREAL, Dec. 30 /CNW Telbec/ - Air Canada and Jazz remind customers that new security measures imposed by Canadian and U.S. government authorities on flights from Canada to the U.S. remain in effect until further notice. As a result of these rules there are strict limits in effect for carry-on articles allowed in the cabin and longer security screening times at airports.

Air Canada advises passengers that the new regulations permit only a single carry-on item and recommends customers consult Transport Canada guidelines at http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/mediaroom/backgrounders-menu-5781.htm for details on permissible carry-on items such as a small purse, laptop computer or infant care items.

To accommodate customers travelling to the U.S., Air Canada is waiving excess baggage charges for checked baggage on a temporary basis for U.S.-bound customers travelling from Canada. These customers will be permitted to check one additional item of baggage within allowable weight and size limits at no additional charge until further notice. For example, regular economy passengers will be permitted up to three checked bags weighing 23 kilograms each.

Customers can continue to expect some delays on U.S.-bound flights. Northbound flights from the U.S. to Canada are also being impacted due to late inbound aircraft. Customers can also expect potential delays on domestic and international flights due to airport congestion and delayed aircraft.

Air Canada recommends passengers travelling to the U.S. from Canada check the status of their flight before going to the airport and arrive early for their flight in order to allow adequate time for additional personal searches. Under new rules enacted by Transport Canada and the U.S. Transportation Security Administration, passengers and their carry-on allowance will be strictly limited and subject to full searches at airport screening points.

"With the cooperation of our customers during this difficult time, we have been able to stabilize our operation and we have now returned to normal for our peak winter season. Still, passengers can expect some delays on account of the additional security measures and we greatly appreciate our customers' continued understanding," said Duncan Dee, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. "During the busy Christmas and New Year period we are expecting nearly one million passengers and our top priority is to move everyone safely and securely, even if that sometimes requires occasional delays."

Due to heavy volumes customers may find response times are longer than normal at call centres. Customers should check the status of their flight at www.aircanada.com.