Increased police presence at Calgary International Airport after Brussel attacks

The level of security at Calgary International Airport (YYC) has been increased in light of the terror attacks in Brussels.

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At 8 a.m. Brussels time, two bombings ripped through the terminal building of Zaventem International Airport. A third explosion occurred shortly after at Maelbeek metro station, near the principle institutions of the European Union. At least 34 people are dead and hundreds are injured from the blasts.

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Calgary Police Service told Calgary Buzz that they have increased their police presence at the airport.

“We’ve taken some of the officers on duty from the day and asked them to patrol the airport a little more… to show more of that uniform presence in and around the airport,” Inspector Mike Worden said.

At this time, no flights from YYC have been affected.

The recent events in Brussels are tragic, and our thoughts are with the families and friends of the victims @BrusselsAirport & metro station

— YYC (@FlyYYC) March 22, 2016

All flights today to and from Zaventem Airport have been cancelled, including four departing flights to and from Pearson International Airport in Toronto. Thousands of passengers on flights in the air bound for Brussels have been diverted to other airports.

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Security measures are also being re-evaluated and heightened at other major North American and European airports.

The federal government has warned Canadians travelling to or already in Brussels to be extra vigilant. A travel advisory has been issued for the city:

“You should exercise a high degree of caution due to the current elevated threat of terrorism… Transportation authorities have closed the metro lines and other public transportation systems have stopped running. Local authorities are asking the public to remain indoors as the situation continues to develop. If you are in Brussels, avoid heading to the airport and contact your transportation carrier to find out how the situation may affect your travel plans. Remain vigilant, follow the instructions of local authorities and monitor local news, including social media.”