ST. GEORGE’S, GRENADA, February 7 – Air travel out of Grenada to the United States has become grueling for many passengers, with heightened security measures causing significant delays and distress.

Since the inauguration of U.S. President Donald Trump, passengers departing from Maurice Bishop International Airport (MBIA) have reported an escalation in security screenings, with some being subjected to multiple searches and prolonged scrutiny even after clearing immigration.

JetBlue passengers departing Grenada for JFK on Friday were notified via email that they should arrive at the airport earlier than usual due to additional security checks.

These new measures appear to be linked to Trump’s controversial anti-immigration policies, emphasizing stricter border controls and increased vetting of travelers.

Multiple passengers have shared accounts of being subjected to repeated searches.

One frustrated traveler recounted her experience:

“Everything seemed normal when we checked in at the front, where they take your luggage. But after passing through security and customs, they called my name along with many others. They made me open my suitcase and recheck it, even though it had already been screened. Then, out of nowhere, they said I needed a body check. I had to sit in a small security area while waiting for a female officer to pat me down,” she said.

The passenger added that security personnel took her passport multiple times for additional checks and even reassigned her seat on the plane several times.

“Just before boarding, they rechecked my passport and boarding pass. I’ve never experienced that much security before.”

Passengers are also being stopped on the tarmac, where security officials conduct additional passport verifications before travelers board the aircraft.

Some individuals have even been held in designated security areas for extended periods, heightening concerns over fairness and transparency in the selection process.

Airport security personnel have told protesting passengers that they are simply following instructions from the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

The TSA is responsible for ensuring the safety of flights bound for the United States.

Under the Trump administration’s hardline immigration stance, it appears that outbound screenings from countries like Grenada have intensified.

The increased security measures have resulted in flight delays, adding to passengers’ frustrations.

Many travelers from Grenada and other Caribbean nations fear being unfairly targeted.