Canada’s Minister of Transport, Omar Alghabra, has unveiled Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) plans for a new Verified Traveller programme.
The new Verified Traveller programme will replace the current Trusted Traveller programme. By June 21, 2023, dedicated Verified Traveller screening lines will be available at select domestic and international checkpoints in Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, Winnipeg, Toronto-Pearson (T1 and T3) and Montreal-Trudeau international airports.
According to CATSA, the new programme will help ease congestion over time, as use of dedicated Verified Traveller lines grows. The new lines provide eligible travellers with select benefits at security screening checkpoints, such as keeping laptops, large electronics and compliant liquids and gels in their carry-on, and keeping their shoes, belt and light jacket on. Eligible travellers include members of NEXUS and Global Entry, active members of the Canadian Armed Forces and US military, including reservists, with valid ID, and Canadian aircrew and airport workers with Restricted Area Identification Cards. International aircrew (in uniform) with valid airline ID will also be eligible, as will Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officers, Canadian police officers and constables with a badge and proper photo identification issued by their respective organisations.
The Verified Traveller programme allows children who are 17 years of age and younger, and adults who are 75 years of age and older, to accompany verified travellers through security, provided they are on the same reservation.
Several airports will also offer verified travellers with front-of-the-line service and additional benefits at transborder checkpoints (flights to the US).
Image: Vancouver International Airport
