Federal government announces new program to streamline airport security

With the aim of avoiding the travel chaos that gripped the country last summer, the federal government is rolling out a new Verified Traveller Program it says will streamline the airport security check-in process.

With the aim of avoiding the travel chaos that gripped the country last summer, the federal government is rolling out a new Verified Traveller Program it says will streamline the airport security check-in process.

Beginning next month, eligible airline passengers will be able to keep their laptops, electronics and liquids in their carry-on bags and will be permitted to clear airport security without having to remove their shoes, belts and jackets.

The changes to the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) security screening practices will affect six international airports across the country. They were announced by Transport Minister Omar Alghabra on Tuesday.

"As membership grows over time, the new Verified Traveller Program will help improve the screening experience for more and more passengers while supporting the highest standards of safety and security," Alghabra said at an event at Toronto Pearson International Airport.

The new Verified Traveller Program will be up and running by June 21, according to a government statement on the new system, and will replace the current Trusted Traveller Program.