The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) exists to protect you and your loved ones while traveling by air. Whether you’re on a domestic flight or simply connecting through any one of Canada’s 89 major airports, CATSA’s personnel and our passenger, non-passenger and baggage screening partners are a visible reminder of the important role we play in ensuring your security.

The tragic bombing of Air India Flight 182 in 1985 marked Canada’s worst aviation-related terrorist attack to date, and in its wake gave rise to the dedication and commitment of the Canadian government to build an even stronger and stricter aviation security framework.

CATSA was created in response to this demand for better air transportation and airport security protection. With the most recent terrorist attacks of 9/11, threats to aviation security have become a sobering reality requiring increased diligence, regulation, and aviation security expertise.

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.

CATSA’s top priority remains security. Prior to the enactment of the CATSA Act on April 1, 2002, individual airlines were responsible for pre-board screening, with Transport Canada overseeing their activities. With a Canadian-wide strategy in place, CATSA is now able to deploy a national approach to security that ensures consistency in both operations and mandate. This new standardized approach is inline with international air security networks that have been established at airports around the world.

Find out more about us and learn how you can help us in our efforts to secure air travel in Canada before your next trip, with Pack Smart.