France, Belgium: security screenings could affect flights

Flights into Charles De Gaulle airport and Brussels airport may be impacted by security screening restrictions. Article from USA Today below.  Also, see Air Canada travel advisory: http://www.aircanada.com/en/travelinfo/before/operation/index.html

  

Travelers faced uncertainty about schedules and security in the wake of a coordinated terrorist attack in Paris late Friday.

 Airports were open and rail service was running on Saturday, but operations were anything but normal. Travelers faced enhanced security and border checks, both in France and in other western nations as western officials reacted to the situation in France.

 Airlines continued to operate most scheduled flights to France, though there had been some cancellations Friday evening into Saturday.

The big U.S. three big airlines – American, Delta and United – were waiving change fees for passengers ticketed to fly to Paris during the next few days. Specifics varied by carrier, but most waivers allowed customers holding tickets to Paris to make one change to their itinerary – with some restrictions – without paying the standard change fee. Many big international carriers were doing the same.

 Some hotel chains also were allowing fee-free itinerary changes.

 “We are shocked and saddened by the attacks in Paris and our thoughts and prayers go out to all those impacted,” Starwood Hotels and Resorts says in a statement to USA TODAY. “Our hotels in Paris are all reported safe and we have stringent security measures in place. All Starwood Hotels in Paris are waiving cancellation fees for arrivals up to and including Friday, Nov. 20.”

 Travelers continuing with their plans were warned to expect disruptions, long lines and delays.

 Air France said via its website “all of our upcoming flights from/to France are maintained following the events that occurred in Paris area this November 13.” However, the airline added “departure and arrival delays are to be expected following the reinforcement of controls at the borders by the authorities. We recommend passengers to anticipate their arrival at the airport and be in possession of a valid identification document.”

That warning came as France stepped up border checks for travel in and out of the country. Typically, travelers are able to move relatively freely between France and many European counties.

 Airport security also was ratcheted up, with many fliers taking to social media with photos of long queues at French airports. Read more:

http://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/flights/todayinthesky/2015/11/14/travelers-brace-delays-disruptions-wake-paris-terror-attack/75775626/