CATSA News Release

For Immediate Release

May 10 , 2004

Security Screening for Airport Workers Completes Phase One

The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) today announced the completion of phase one of its Non-Passenger Screening (NPS) program at Canada's largest airports.

Following the Minister of Transport's announcement last February, CATSA has worked with screening contractors, airport authorities, and airlines on the implementation of NPS at airports in Canada.

Under this new program, non-passengers such as airline personnel, airport employees, refuelers, flight crews, caterers, aircraft groomers, maintenance personnel and ground handlers are subject to random screening when accessing restricted areas. The random screening takes place at entrances to restricted areas and within the restricted areas as required.

"NPS represents an important addition to our mandate, and will contribute to further enhancing security at Canada's airports," said CATSA President and Chief Executive Officer Jacques Duchesneau.

CATSA has already begun the next phase of the implementation at remaining airports. Once this phase is complete, this program will cover workers at airports representing over 92 per cent of Canada's air passenger travel. The final phase of NPS is set for completion by the end of this year.

A Crown Corporation based in the National Capital Region, CATSA reports to Parliament through the Minister of Transport and is responsible for delivering consistent, effective and efficient service that is set at or above the standards established by federal regulations.

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For more information, please contact:
Renée Fairweather (613) 998-4527