The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA; French: Administration canadienne de la sûreté du transport aérien) is the federal Crown corporation responsible for security screening at Canada’s civil airports. CATSA delivers or oversees pre-board passenger screening, checked baggage screening, and non-passenger screening at designated airports, working under the policy and regulatory framework set by Transport Canada.
| Type | Federal Crown corporation (aviation security screening) |
|---|---|
| Core functions | Pre-board passenger screening • Checked baggage screening • Non-passenger screening (airport workers/contractors) • Screening equipment, contracts & standards • Public guidance on screening |
| Legal/Policy framework | CATSA Act • Aviation security regulations/directions under the Aeronautics Act (Transport Canada) |
| Delivery model | Screening provided by CATSA-contracted service providers at designated airports; oversight, training & quality control by CATSA |
| Official site | catsa-acsta.gc.ca |
Mandate and role
CATSA’s mandate is to protect the public by screening people, baggage, and certain airport workers prior to entering secure areas or boarding aircraft. Transport Canada sets the aviation security rules; CATSA implements screening to meet those requirements, manages contracts and technology, and monitors performance.
What CATSA screens
- Pre-board passenger screening (PBSS): People and carry-on items are screened for prohibited items (e.g., weapons, explosives) using X-ray/CT systems, walk-through metal detectors, explosive trace detection, and advanced imaging as required.
- Hold/checked baggage screening (HBS): Checked luggage is screened using automated explosive detection systems; suspect bags are resolved by secondary inspection.
- Non-passenger screening (NPS): Random or risk-based screening of airport workers and vehicles entering restricted areas, in partnership with airports.
Screening experience and programs
- CATSA Plus (where available): Modernized lines with parallel divest, larger tables, automatic bin return, and improved flow.
- Trusted traveller lanes (select airports): Dedicated lanes for eligible travellers (e.g., NEXUS members) with streamlined procedures; requirements vary by site.
- Family & special needs support: Family/medical lanes and assistance for travellers with mobility aids, medical devices, or hidden disabilities.
- Prohibited/controlled items: Lists and packing guidance are maintained publicly; some items may be permitted in checked baggage only.
Governance, oversight, and partners
- CATSA is overseen by a Board and funded by the federal government.
- Transport Canada regulates aviation security and inspects CATSA for compliance.
- Airports operate facilities and access control; air carriers apply their own security programs consistent with federal requirements.
- Law enforcement at airports (e.g., local police or RCMP units) respond to security incidents.
Technology and quality assurance
CATSA specifies and maintains screening equipment, certifies new technologies, trains screening officers, and conducts covert tests, observations, and audits to ensure consistent performance against standards.
Passenger rights & responsibilities
Travellers must comply with screening instructions, present boarding passes and identification when required, and declare specific items. CATSA publishes information on preparing for screening, medical accommodations, and complaint/compliment channels.
See also
- Transport Canada • Canadian Transportation Agency (air passenger protection & accessibility) • NAV CANADA (air navigation)
- Airports in Canada • Public safety in Canada
External links (official)
- CATSA — What to expect at screening: https://www.catsa-acsta.gc.ca/
- What can I bring?: https://www.catsa-acsta.gc.ca/ (search: “What Can I Bring”)