Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA)

ABOUT

The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) is a federal Crown corporation responsible for securing critical elements of Canada’s air transportation system. CATSA was created to enhance aviation security across the country by assuming airport screening responsibilities from airlines, as directed by Transport Canada.

CATSA’s core mandate is to protect the public by ensuring effective and efficient security screening at designated airports across Canada. Its responsibilities are divided into four main categories. The first is Pre-board Screening (PBS), which involves screening passengers and their carry-on baggage before they enter secure airport areas. The second is Hold Baggage Screening (HBS), which checks checked baggage for prohibited items, such as explosives, before it is loaded onto aircraft. Another responsibility is Non-Passenger Screening (NPS), which involves screening airport workers, flight crews, and service providers—including vehicles and contents—when entering restricted areas at high-risk airports. Lastly, CATSA manages the Restricted Area Identity Card (RAIC) system, a biometric identification program that uses iris and fingerprint identifiers to control access to restricted airport zones for authorized personnel.