Policing Backgrounder

Air transport security in Canada is a multi-layered system that involves not only CATSA conducting operations, but also other organizations with specific mandates pertaining to the security of air travellers. A typical airport relies on Transport Canada, Canadian Border Services Agency, airlines, police services and airport authorities in addition to CATSA to ensure safe passage for travellers as they check in, board and enjoy their flights. There are multiple layers of security at every stage of air travel, including in the airport and on board the aircraft.

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.

Canadian Air Carrier Protection Program (CACPP)

On many commercial flights, undercover, armed officers from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) are on board, ensuring the security of the aircraft.

For security reasons CATSA cannot disclose which flights have had or will have armed RCMP officers on board, but part of the CACPP mandate includes all flights from Canada to Washington's Reagan National Airport and other select flights.

The person or persons responsible for the aircraft are informed when an RCMP officer is on a given flight. Decisions about which flights have armed RCMP officers on board are made based on a threat assessment process performed by the RCMP and are not restricted to any one airline.

The armed RCMP security officer on board an aircraft would intervene only in the event of a severe threat to aviation security. Determination of what constitutes a severe threat is based on an assessment by the RCMP security officer. Threat assessment is a routine part of the duties of RCMP members.

The associated costs for the CACPP are covered by CATSA, however due to security restrictions, CATSA cannot disclose the budget for the program.