CATSA puts out statement apologizing to passengers for wait times

The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority has put out a public apology for the recent increase in wait times at some major airports. The statement tried to assure the public that CATSA was taking every possible measure to improve wait times.

According to the organization, the aviation industry has undergone high rates of layoffs in the last couple of years. In particular, a significant number of layoffs occurred within the security screening workforce CATSA reported.

“Now, as then, CATSA’s priority is to protect the public through effective and efficient security screening and we are committed to meeting that mandate,” reads the statement from CATSA’s CEO, Mike Saunders.

CATSA said that its third-party security contractors have been working to increase staffing levels despite facing the same recruitment challenges of the aviation industry at large.

Adequate training and certification follow the recruitment stage for the security screening role in order to ensure screeners are properly qualified.

“We are continuing to work with our screening contractors to take all steps possible to increase staffing levels while ensuring we continue to provide the highest levels of security screening,” Saunders added.

The statement from CATSA advises travellers to be prepared for security screening, reminding them that they require all liquids, gels and aerosols in a carry-on baggage to be in containers of 100ml or less and placed in a clear, 1L resealable bag. Additional security screening tips are available at www.CATSA.gc.ca.

“As CATSA works aggressively to address wait times for security at Canadian airports, it again apologizes for the inconvenience this brings to air travellers, and asks that passengers show patience and understanding with screening personnel, who are doing their best to move air travellers through the screening process as quickly as possible while ensuring their safety and security.”