CATSA News Release

Aviation Security Authority Appeals to Air Travellers: Leave Liquids, Gels and Aerosols Behind

OTTAWA – September 4, 2007 –The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority is renewing an appeal to air travellers one year after Canada adopted restrictions on liquids, gels and aerosols. In spite of the year-old regulations, numerous air travellers continue to arrive at the pre-board screening checkpoint with over-sized quantities of bottled water, perfume, shampoo, hair gel, and other toiletries.

“It takes just a minute quantity of liquid explosives to destroy an aircraft and disrupt the aviation system. This is why the regulations were put into place,” said Jacques Duchesneau, CATSA President and Chief Executive Officer. “We urge travellers to be vigilant and make a conscious effort to ensure that threats are kept off passenger planes.”
 
Across the country, screening officers intercept over 850,000 liquids, gels and aerosols every week. Over 90,000 liquids, gels and aerosols are intercepted daily at Pearson International Airport alone. The staggering amount translates into delays at the security screening checkpoint as passengers have to unpack and dispose of the items.

The restrictions on liquids, gels and aerosols were put in place in August 2006 following the failed bombing attempts at Heathrow airport in London, England. Twenty four people were arrested in a plot to detonate liquid explosives on passenger aircraft.

“Security is a top priority for Canada’s new government. The on-going regulations on liquids and gels are meant for the protection of Canadians. I am proud of the work being carried out by the more than 5,200 screening officers to help secure commercial flights,” said Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities.

REGULATIONS ON LIQUIDS, GELS AND AEROSOLS:
For carry-on items, liquids, gels and aerosols must be placed in containers with a maximum capacity of 100mL (3.4 ounces). These containers must be placed in a clear, re-sealable plastic bag with a capacity of no more than one litre. One bag per passenger is permitted.
 
For more information about the regulations and other packing tips, please visit www.catsa.gc.ca or call CATSA at 1-888-294-2202.

The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) is a Crown corporation created by the federal government in response to the events of September 11, 2001. The Authority reports to Parliament, through the Minister of Transport and is responsible for securing critical elements of aviation security.
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Contact:
CATSA Media Relations at (613) 998-4527.