OTTAWA – September 27, 2007 — With hunting season underway across the country, the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) is advising hunters to be aware of packing restrictions in order to avoid delays at the pre-board screening checkpoints.
When screening officers come across knives, rifles, bullets and similar hunting gear, law enforcement is summoned. This adds to the screening time and creates avoidable delays.
Of all hunting-related items, bullets are the most common problem. Screening officers at the Canada’s largest airports intercepted some 264 bullets (including casings, replicas and real bullets) during last year’s hunting season, from September to December 2006. This accounted for over half the total number of bullets intercepted during the entire year.
Passengers are required to declare their firearms and ammunition to the air carrier at the airport check-in counter.
“We realize that Canada’s rural and northern grounds attract hunters from across North America,” said Yves Duguay, CATSA Vice President, Operations. “Hunters can help ensure a smooth screening process by following our packing guidelines and by being mindful of security regulations when they are preparing their baggage.”
PACKING CHECKLIST FOR HUNTERS
Make sure guns are unloaded and are securely locked.
Pack rifles, shotguns and ammunition separately in checked baggage.
Store ammunition securely in a marked container, separate from the firearm. Passengers are permitted up to 5 kilograms (11 lbs) of ammunition.
Securely wrap bows, arrows and knives and pack in checked baggage.
Bear sprays and animal repellants are prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage.
Declare your firearms and ammunition at the air carrier check-in counter.
For more information, contact the Canada Firearms Centre at 1-800-731-4000.
Please take note that the restrictions on liquids, gels and aerosols remains in effect. 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, please call CATSA at 1-888-294-2202.
