No. H010/06
For release March 29, 2006
OTTAWA — Canada has exceeded international requirements by screening all
checked baggage onboard international flights as well as on most domestic
commercial passenger flights. Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport,
Infrastructure and Communities, made the announcement today during a keynote
address at the Canadian Aviation Security Conference in Ottawa.
International requirements established by the International Civil Aviation
Organization (ICAO) mandated that all member countries screen 100 per cent of
all baggage on international flights by January 1, 2006.
"Ensuring Canada's aviation system remains one of the most secure in the world
is a priority for the Government of Canada," said Minister Cannon. "I'm proud to
report that Canada has met, and indeed exceeded, the international standard set
by ICAO to address the risk associated with explosives in checked baggage."
The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) began installing explosive
detection systems in 2002. CATSA has since progressively increased its use of
these sophisticated systems, and has been screening all checked baggage
departing Canada's major and regional airports since December 31, 2005.
"CATSA has reached this important milestone on time and on budget. This is a
testament to our commitment to the security of air travellers," said Jacques
Duchesneau, CATSA President and Chief Executive Officer. "As our operations
continue to evolve, we will strive to keep our technologies, techniques and
training effective against all emerging threats to aviation security."
With the screening of checked baggage now in place, as of March 31, 2006, air
carriers will no longer be required to ask passengers at check-in if they packed
their own bags, are aware of what's in them, and if they have left them
unattended in a public place.
"The Government of Canada continues to work with its partners, including
industry stakeholders, to look for better, more efficient and effective ways to
deliver security," added Minister Cannon. "We are confident that this move will
improve efficiency, provide a better flying experience for passengers and reduce
air carrier costs - all without compromising the security of air travellers."
- 30 -
Contacts:
Vanessa Vermette
Communications
Transport Canada, Ottawa
(613) 993-0055
Anna-Karina Tabunar
Communications
Canadian Air Transport Security Authority, Ottawa
(613) 998-4527
Transport Canada is online at www.tc.gc.ca. Subscribe to news releases and speeches at apps.tc.gc.ca/listserv/ and keep up-to-date on the latest from Transport Canada.
This news release may be made available in alternative formats for persons with visual disabilities.
