Security Screening Wait Times

CATSA encourages all passengers to arrive at their departing airport well in advance of their flight. Many airlines advise passengers to arrive two hours in advance for domestic flights and three hours in advance for US and international flights.

Be prepared for screening - LAGS

Be prepared for screening. Please ensure that all liquids, gels and aerosols in your carry-on baggage are in containers of 100ml or less and placed in a clear, 1L resealable bag. Click here for more information about carry-on baggage requirements.

Non-passenger Screening

CATSA’s screening officers conduct screening of non-passengers accessing restricted areas at major airports.  Non-passengers include flight and cabin crews, airline customer service personnel, caterers, maintenance personnel, baggage handlers and other airport staff.

It’s the Law

Transport Canada introduced non-passenger screening (NPS) regulations in 2004 to enhance both airport and civil aviation security.

When and Where Does NPS Take Place?

Screening occurs during airport operational hours at doors leading into restricted areas and at random within those zones. In addition, several checkpoints equipped with state-of-the-art, biometric technology are located at some of the largest airports.

NPS continues to evolve as a program; the one constant is the need for cooperation between screening officers and non-passengers to make the process hassle free. The vast majority of screenings are quick and routine, but mutual respect helps ensure a smoother process for everyone involved. Ultimately, non-passengers must comply with NPS or risk losing their access privileges.