Airport Security
The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) assumes full operational responsibility for pre-board screening of air passengers and their belongings. The security measures are intended to ensure the safety and security of the travelling public.
Be sure to have valid photo identification for domestic flights and your passport for international flights. Be prepared to show it at the check-in counter and at the boarding gate.
At the security screening checkpoint, you will be required to remove all outerwear and any metal objects, like coins and keys. If you activate the alarm, security staff must search you again by hand or with a hand-held metal detector. Carry-on baggage is sent separately through an X-ray machine, and may be searched manually by security staff. Passengers may also be selected at random for additional screening procedures, even if they do not alarm the metal detector. If you refuse to undergo security screening, you will not be allowed past security screening and air carriers will not allow you to board the airplane.
Passengers are not permitted to carry unauthorized weapons and explosives through pre-board screening. Potentially dangerous articles, such as pocket knives, scissors and tools such as screwdrivers, must not be put in carry-on baggage. Articles considered as dangerous goods, such as gasoline, are prohibited in both your carry-on and checked baggage. You can carry electronic devices, such as cell phones and laptops, but security may be required to do additional tests. Do not wrap gifts, as security personnel may need to open them for inspection.
Liquids, aerosols and gels are permitted on Canadian flights provided they are in 100 ml/100 g/3.4 oz containers and are placed in a 1 litre resealable, transparent plastic bag. A single bag is allowed per person. Liquid prescription and essential non-prescription drugs are allowed without any restriction.
Infant formula, baby food, milk, water and juice are permitted in carry-on baggage when the passenger is accompanied by a child of two years or less.
To speed up the security procedure, passengers should place all liquids, aerosols and gels in the bins provided at the entrance of the checkpoint. If you are unsure about a particular item, contact your air carrier or CATSA in advance to determine whether it is permitted.
While this section of the booklet highlights current security procedures, enhanced security measures can be implemented at any time at airports across Canada or elsewhere. Therefore, always allow sufficient time before your flight to undergo security screening.
