MCALLEN – The next time passengers head to the airport in the Rio Grande Valley, they’ll see changes to the way their electronics are screened by TSA.

Increased threats in airline travel spurred the new measures. The McAllen International Airport announced changes will go into effect the first week in November.

The procedure was implemented earlier this month at Brownsville-South Padre Island International Airport. Valley International Airport in Harlingen will begin the measures Friday.

Carrie Harmon with TSA explained electronics will be impacted.

“Tablets, Kindles, external drives, their computer, all of those things now have to come out of your carry-on bag and be placed in a bin,” she said. “You'll notice that we put them the bin next to each other, not on top of each other and we don't want anything below it."

The changes only apply to electronics larger than a cellphone. This includes external hard drives, handheld cameras, and Kindles.

Harmon said these measures are to keep passengers safe and ease the screening process.

Passengers are advised to keep their carry-on luggage uncluttered, otherwise, they may experience more bag checks.

Airport personnel also encourage folks to get to the airport at least 90 minutes before their departure. The early arrival will decrease a passenger’s chances of missing a flight in case of any long delays.

Travelers with TSA pre-check are exempt from having to take out their electronic devices from carry-on luggage.