Canada to allow small scissors and tools onboard planes

In doing so, Canada harmonises its list of items prohibited onboard aircraft with the United States and the European Union.

Following a review by the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority, "air travellers can now bring in their carry-on baggage small scissors and tools that are no longer than six centimetres (excluding the handle)," Transport Minister Chuck Strahl said in a statement.

These items pose a "low threat to aircraft safety and security" now that cockpit doors are reinforced and security officers are present on some flights, he explained.
Knives of any size or length, however, remain prohibited.

The minister also unveiled "new dedicated lanes for families" at airport security checkpoints, with equipment specifically designed for bigger items such as strollers.