Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced today that Canada will be requiring temperature checks at airports for anyone boarding a plane into or out of the country.

Speaking during his daily press briefing Friday morning, he added that anyone travelling within Canada by plane will eventually also have to have their temperature taken before boarding. 

Anyone found to have a fever following the check will not be allowed on the plane, he said.

I’m giving an update on the steps we’re taking to get you the support you need and the work we’re doing with the provinces and territories to keep you safe as we restart our economy. For the latest on all that and more, watch live: https://t.co/ruyJSoe6dW

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) June 12, 2020

Trudeau said this new initiative will be introduced using a phased-in approach, starting with people boarding flights to enter Canada.

"Our government is mandating temperature screening for air passengers through a phased approach, first for those travelling to Canada, then for those travelling from Canada, and finally for those travelling within Canada," said Trudeau.

"This screening will add yet another layer of protection."

Currently, airline passengers are required to wear masks or face coverings when travelling and airports have introduced enhanced cleaning protocols and physical distancing rules. 

Some airlines have also already mandated temperature checks on their own, including Air Canada and WestJet. 

And while mandatory temperature screening is an added protection against the spread of COVID-19 in airplanes, where physical distancing simply isn't possible, Trudeau acknowledged that this measure simply tests for one of many symptoms and not the actual virus itself.

"It is not the panacea," he said. "It is an extra layer of safety."