The Canadian Minister of Transport, Omar Alghabra, has announced that the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) will launch a new Verified Traveler program, which aims at a faster and more efficient screening experience for travellers across Canada.
According to Transport Canada, the new Verified Traveler program will be a substitute for the current Trusted Traveler program and will be available by June 21, 2023, for Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, Winnipeg International Airports as well as Toronto-Pearson International Airport T1 and T3 and Montreal-Trudeau International Airport, VisaGuide.World reports.
“This new Verified Traveler program builds on our $1.8 billion investment for CATSA in Budget 2023 and is great news as we enter another busy travel season to help combat congestion at our airports. It will help improve the security screening process for eligible travellers at select airports across Canada while still ensuring we meet the highest standards of security and safety for air passengers,” Minister of Transport Omar Alghabra said.
Throughout the new program, the use of dedicated Verified Traveler lines is expected to help ease congestion over time, and the new lines provide eligible travellers with some benefits at screening checkpoints. Some of these privileges can include keeping laptops, large electronics and gels in their bags as well as keeping their belt, shoes and jacket on, provided the outwear is light.
Travellers that are eligible for these benefits include members of NEXUS and Global Entry, Canadian Armed Forces and US military, active members, aircrew and airport workers with Restricted Area Identification Cards, international aircrew, as well as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers and police officers with the necessary documents issued by respective organizations.
In addition, under the Verified Traveler program, children 17 and younger, as well as senior citizens that are 75 or older, will be able to accompany verified travellers through security only if they are on the same reservation.
Furthermore, several airports will offer this category of travellers front-of-the-line service and additional benefits at transborder checkpoints for flights to the neighbouring country of the United States.
The introduction of the Verified Traveler program is very important for streamlining the security screening process for eligible travelers in Canada. With dedicated groups and expedited procedures, this initiative aims to increase the overall travel experience for these people while maintaining the highest levels of security.
Travellers can look forward to more efficient screenings and shorter wait times at respective airports, highlighting the government’s commitment to creating a strong and traveller-friendly transportation network across Canada.
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