Security and luggage

Security

The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA), which is responsible for screening passengers at all Canadian airports, urges you to proceed to your pre-boarding screening checkpoint (A or C, as specified on your boarding pass) as soon as possible. Waiting time is generally longer at busy hours of the day (early in the morning and in mid-afternoon).  

So that the screening process goes as smoothly as possible, make sure you do not have any prohibited items, as determined by CATSA, on your person or in your luggage. You will also save time by either not wearing any metallic objects, or placing such objects in your carry-on luggage before lining up. 

As part as the Cannabis Act, in effect as of October 17, 2018, passengers should visit the Government of Canada site for more information on cannabis guidelines and travel abroad.

Liquids, aerosols and gels in your carry-on luggage must be in containers of 100 ml/100 g (3.4 oz) or less. All such containers must fit easily in one clear, closed, re-sealable plastic bag no larger than 1 litre (1 quart) in size. Approximate dimensions of a 1 litre (1 quart) bag are 15.24 cm by 22.86 cm (6 in. by 9 in.) or 20 cm by 17.5 cm (8 in. by 7 in.). Any beverage in a container larger than 100 ml must be drunk or disposed of before you reach the security screening checkpoint. Any container larger than 100 ml must go in your checked luggage.

Never make any frivolous remark or joke about bombs, firearms or other weapons while you are in a checkpoint area. In some cases, doing so is an offence under the Criminal Code of Canada.

As of January 31, 2014, CATSA will accept, subject to screening, duty-free liquids, aerosols and gels, such as alcohol, perfume and cosmetics, purchased from any airline or airport retailer that are properly sealed in official security bags and accompanied by a receipt.

Previously, only passengers originating from European airports were able to bring duty-free purchases in security bags through CATSA checkpoints.

Existing volume restrictions for liquids, aerosols and gels not purchased duty-free remain in place.

  • Place liquids, aerosols and gels in a 1 L bag.
  • Pack your small electronics in your carry-on.
  • Pack all medication separately for easy inspection.
  • Avoir wearing large metal items.
  • Dress comfortably with easy-to-remove outerwear.

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See also Nexus

Luggage

Each airline has a specific luggage-allowance policy covering the number, dimensions and maximum weight of items.

Rules regarding carry-on luggage are also issued by your airline. Generally speaking, you are allowed two items, including your duty-free purchases, and you must be able to store them under your seat or in an overhead compartment on board the aircraft. Some items, such as coats, handbags, cameras and strollers, are usually not considered part of your carry-on allowance.

Transportation and delivery of checked luggage is the responsibility of your airline. If after landing at Montréal–Trudeau you notice a problem with your luggage, go immediately to your airline’s luggage service counter in the terminal building. It is recommended that you report any damage or loss on-site. 

See also SecureBag, Check-in, Pets