Programs

CATSA operates a number of programs to ensure that our airports and aircraft are secure in order to protect you, your family and Canada. Clicking the links below will provide you with more information about each of our programs and how they contribute to Canada's national security.

• Airport Policing
• Non-Passenger Screening (NPS)
• Hold Baggage Screening (HBS)
• Pre-Board Screening (PBS)
• Canadian Air Carrier Protection Program (CACPP)
• Restricted Area Identification Card (RAIC)
• Training

Airport Policing

In the aftermath of 9/11, the government of Canada required enhanced police presence at all class 1 and certain other airports have been designated for enhanced police coverage. In order to offset a portion of these costs, CATSA provides funding to these airports.

Non-Passenger Screening (NPS)

In addition to screening passengers and their baggage, CATSA is responsible for screening non-passengers entering into restricted areas at Canada's airports.

Hold Baggage Screening (HBS)

One of CATSA's responsibilities is the acquisition, deployment, operation and maintenance of explosives detection systems at airports. Hold Baggage Screening (HBS) is the screening of checked baggage using this equipment.

In 2006, CATSA announced full deployment of Hold Baggage Screening (HBS) at 89 airports across Canada. This state of the art baggage system is multi-level and involves the screening of all checked baggage. HBS is in effect for all domestic and international flights. Learn more

Pre-Board Screening (PBS)

Where CATSA will be most visible to you, the air traveller, is at the pre-board screening checkpoint. CATSA is responsible for the delivery of consistent, effective and professional screening of passengers and their belongings.

Security is CATSA's number one priority. Screening officers stringently screen both you and your carry-on baggage for prohibited items or dangerous goods while making sure to treat travellers with both courtesy and respect. Learn more

Canadian Air Carrier Protection Program (CACPP)

Aicraft Protective Officers from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police are present on many commercial flights, ensuring the security of the aircraft. CATSA funds and evaluates the CACPP.

Restricted Area Identification Card (RAIC)

The Restricted Area Identification Card (RAIC) is an identification program started in 2004 to make sure that all workers entering airport restricted areas are permitted to be there. Using state of the art biometric technology, incorporating both fingerprint and iris recognition, the Restricted Area Identification Card (RAIC) is granted only to those airport workers for whom Transport Canada has provided clearance at major airports. The RAIC program, in conjunction with Non-Passenger Screening, ensures that restricted areas at airports are kept secure.

Once enrolment is complete, 120,000 airport workers will be registered, providing an additional layer of security to airport workers who require access to restricted airport zones.

Training

Terrorists are constantly trying to find vulnerabilities in security systems. CATSA ensures that screening officers on the front-lines are one step ahead of threats at all times. Canada's screening officers are armed with the latest and best techniques, technology and training to keep air travellers safe.

All screening officers in Canada are security cleared and rigorously trained on a program built on the principal of continuous improvement. The classroom, on the job and computer and web-based training never stops and evaluations - both written and practical - are conducted frequently. Screening officers at Canada's airports must be CATSA certified and recertification on an annual basis will be a requirement starting in 2006.