Overview
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection temporarily halted operations in the airport’s U.S. preclearance area after staff detected a varnish-like smell from interior painting and construction materials.
- The suspension forced about 20 cancellations of U.S.-bound flights, with morning services to Orlando, Washington and Chicago among those listed as cancelled.
- Montreal Fire Department inspectors checked the affected area and concluded the odour posed no danger to health, clearing the way for mitigation steps.
- Airport authorities increased ventilation in the U.S. departures area and said CBP officers began a gradual resumption of processing, but warned passengers to expect delays.
- The incident reflects risks tied to major terminal expansion work at Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport and underscores the role of inter-agency checks in restoring service.