Partial U.S. government shutdown blamed for NEXUS closure at Canadian airports | CBC News

"Canadian airports are warning travellers that NEXUS and Global Entry pre-clearance programs for U.S.-bound flights are suspended, with Vancouver's airport linking the news with a partial U.S. government shutdown. Airports in Calgary, Montreal, Vancouver and Toronto asked passengers travelling through U.S. Customs to allow for extra time to pass through security checks on Sunday. Most airports did not explain the reason for the closure,"

"Vancouver International Airport, however, noted on its website that the programs are suspended until further notice "due to the partial U.S. Government shutdown." According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website, NEXUS allows pre-screened travellers expedited processing when entering the U.S. and Canada, with dedicated kiosks at airports. Travellers at several Canadian airports, including Toronto's Pearson airport, pictured here, are encouraged to allow extra time if they are going through U.S. customs. (Evan Mitsui/CBC)"

"A partial U.S. government shutdown began Feb. 14 after Democrats and the White House were unable to reach a deal on legislation to fund the Department of Homeland Security. U.S. Customs and Border Protection did not immediately respond on Sunday when asked by The Canadian Press for an explanation. However, The Associated Press has reported that the Department of Homeland Security said Sunday that the Global Entry program would be shut down as long as the partial government shutdown remains in effect."

Canadian airports warned travellers that NEXUS and Global Entry pre-clearance programs for U.S.-bound flights are suspended, with Vancouver tying the suspension to a partial U.S. government shutdown. Calgary, Montreal, Vancouver and Toronto asked passengers travelling through U.S. Customs to allow extra time for security processing. Most airports did not provide reasons for the closure. Calgary International Airport said NEXUS is managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and had no additional information. The Department of Homeland Security said Global Entry would remain shut down while the partial shutdown continues. The DHS website warned its information might be out of date due to a funding lapse. The Canada Border Services Agency referred questions to U.S. authorities.

Read at www.cbc.ca