New airport security option made available to speed up connections for air travellers

News Release

One Stop Security initiative allows travellers to improve travel times while maintaining security

February 29, 2016 – Ottawa, Ontario – Transport Canada

The Government of Canada is pleased to announce the implementation of a new One Stop Security (OSS) arrangement for flights from Europe and the U.S. connecting through some Canadian airports.

Under this OSS arrangement, passengers and their belongings that have been screened at their point of departure may not have to go through additional screening at participating Canadian airports where they have connecting flights. Making airport connections simpler and faster allows travellers to reach their family and friends more quickly and allows business travellers to get their business done more swiftly. It also helps the Canadian aviation industry attract more flights to or through Canada.

The OSS initiative is made possible when two or more countries agree that their aviation security standards are equivalent.

Existing high security standards found in Canadian airports will not be impacted as a result of OSS.

Quotes

“Allowing more rapid travel times through Canadian airports means that travellers can get home to their families faster, meet up with friends more quickly or get their business done more efficiently. The Government of Canada would like to thank the European Commission and the United States Transportation Security Administration for their hard work, support, and cooperation to advance this important initiative.”
The Honourable Marc Garneau
Minister of Transport

“The Canadian Airports Council congratulates Transport Canada on reaching One Stop Security arrangements with the United States and European Commission. Simplifying and streamlining the travel process while maintaining the rigour and integrity of the security system is essential to ensure that Canadian airports remain globally competitive connection points. These OSS arrangements are a key component in achieving that. We look forward to working with the government to roll this program out at the eligible airports and encourage the department to look at ways to expand and enhance the program over the coming years.”
Daniel-Robert Gooch
President, Canadian Airports Council

“The National Airlines Council of Canada applauds the One Stop Security initiative. Making it easier to fly, connect and do business is extremely important to ensure Canada reaps the benefits of growth in international trade and tourism. The One Stop Security initiative is a great example of governments working together to the benefit of passengers. Our member airlines look forward to play their role in expanding markets, establishing relationships and attracting tourists.”
Marc-André O'Rourke
Executive Director, National Airlines Council of Canada

Quick Facts

  • As One Stop Security will not be mandatory, its benefits to passengers and industry will depend on which airports and airlines apply the initiative.
  • In December 2015, the European Commission announced its intention of implementing OSS for flights originating in Canada and connecting through European airports, this also takes effect today at participating European airports.

Associated Link

Contacts

Delphine Denis
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Marc Garneau
Minister of Transport, Ottawa
613-991-0700

Media Relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613-993-0055

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