TORONTO - The federal government has unveiled a new initiative aimed at making air travel to the United States easier.

Transport Minister Lisa Raitt says NEXUS members and other low-risk trusted travellers who have already undergone extensive background checks will have access to dedicated screening lines.

The trusted travellers include members of the Canadian and American armed forces and uniformed airline crews.

The dedicated screening lines will be available at four of Canada's busiest airports: Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal.

Eligible travellers can go through security checks without having to remove their shoes, belts, hats and jackets.

They will also be allowed to keep liquids, aerosols and gels in their carry-on bags.

Raitt also announced the launch of a new portal that will provide tips, including information about border wait times.

The NEXUS program, which lets pre-approved travellers cross the Canada--U.S. border quickly, has more than 1.1 million members.