Fears in U.S. prompt Transport Canada to promise enhanced air security measures

OTTAWA – Transport Canada says it is looking into tougher aviation security measures in light of U.S. concerns about terrorists developing a new bomb that could get through existing screening.

Washington has already called for tighter security measures at foreign airports that have direct flights to the U.S.

Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson says his agency is sharing information with allies and consulting the aviation industry.

Johnson says the agency continually assesses the global threat environment and re-evaluates security measures.

Canadian officials say Transport Canada is planning enhanced security measures, but offer no details except to say they would have little impact on passengers.

British airports have already toughened security.

“Transport Canada has been monitoring the situation closely and intends to implement enhanced security measures soon,” the department said in a statement.

“For security reasons, Transport Canada cannot provide specific details of security measures.”

Over the years, terror groups have experimented with novel ways of downing airliners, ranging from underwear and shoe bombs to a thwarted plan to use explosives secreted inside printer cartridges shipped on cargo planes.

— With files from The Associated Press