Kelsey MacTavish

The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority's (CATSA) annual public meeting highlighted the organization's accomplishments and priorities. In 2024-25, CATSA screened 68.9 million passengers, with 97% waiting less than 15 minutes. Key achievements included launching CT X-ray technology, introducing compact full body scanners, and implementing a bilingual facilitator role. CATSA deepened its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and continued its indigenous cultural awareness learning program. Looking ahead, CATSA will focus on a 5-year strategic plan, invest in technology, and work with partners to manage projected passenger volume increases.

The meeting included a presentation of CATSA's accomplishments over the last fiscal year and highlighted organizational priorities for the upcoming year. CATSA screened over 66 million passengers, surpassing wait time service levels. The verified traveler program was introduced, along with new technology and algorithms to enhance screening. The board offered strategic direction through future focus initiatives, enhancing governance and oversight practices, engaging with partners in the aviation industry, and gaining insights into the diverse needs of travelers. The organization managed increased passenger volumes by adding 2,200 screening officers. A new gender neutral detection algorithm was piloted and implemented for full body scanners. New airport screening services agreements were procured and implemented.

The meeting included discussions on CATSA's achievements over the last fiscal year and the challenges ahead. Key topics covered the implementation of expanded non-passenger screening services, the hold baggage system recapitalization program, and strategies to manage inflationary passenger growth and airport expansion. The importance of innovation, technology, and collaboration with airports and Transport Canada were emphasized to enhance security and improve passenger experience.

The meeting discussed the accomplishments of the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority over the past fiscal year and highlighted organizational priorities for the coming year. Topics included the screening of over 66.6 million passengers, exceeding service levels related to wait times, the implementation of the Verified Traveler program, and the implementation of new technologies and algorithms to improve screening. The board also enhanced its governance and oversight practices and collaborated with aviation industry partners to better understand the diverse needs of travelers. A new gender-neutral detection algorithm for body scanners was tested and implemented, and progress was made on commitments outlined in the three-year accessibility plan.

The annual public meeting of the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) covered key accomplishments, priorities, and plans for the upcoming year. Discussions included the announcement of the intention to sell CATSA's assets to a private, not-for-profit entity, efforts to maintain stable security operations during this transition, and the goal of laying the foundation for a more sustainable national air transport screening service. The board oversaw the completion of the first CATSA plus checkpoints in Edmonton and Halifax. The meeting also highlighted CATSA's success in exceeding wait time service level targets and the ongoing whole baggage screening recapitalization project. Additionally, the launch of the 'Real People' series, a public-facing campaign featuring CATSA screening officers, was presented.