Harper Government Announces Initiative to Reduce Wait Times at Regina International Airport

REGINA, Jan. 10, 2013 /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Steven Fletcher, Minister of State (Transport), announced a new initiative aimed at making air travel more convenient for Canadians travelling from Regina International Airport. These screening procedures will enable the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) to reduce wait times for travellers.

NEXUS members flying from Regina International Airport are now able to use their NEXUS cards to access a dedicated entrance allowing them to proceed directly to the front of the screening line resulting in shorter wait times.

"Our Government is committed to ensuring the security of Canadians travelling within our borders and abroad while reducing wait times at screening," said Minister Fletcher. "Canadians are now able to use their NEXUS card at more airport security checkpoints, including here at the Regina International Airport, making security screening faster and more convenient."

Initially introduced at a small number of checkpoints, the program is now available at 14 major and mid-size airports in Canada. In addition, since November 15, 2012, NEXUS members travelling within the U.S are able to use their NEXUS cards for expedited screening at 27 participating airports through the TSA Pre✓™ (pre-check) program.

NEXUS is a joint Canada Border Services Agency/U.S. Customs and Border Protection program that expedites the border clearance process for pre-approved, low-risk travellers. Using a NEXUS card at pre-board security screening is an additional benefit for NEXUS members.

"Cross border and domestic passenger traffic at Regina International Airport continues to increase annually as the Saskatchewan economy expands, said Bob Linner, Chairman of Regina Airport Authority's Board.  The introduction of the Nexus line compliments our investment in the airport facilities to meet the growing demand and enhances Regina Airport Authority's focus on customer service and safety. We are very pleased with today's announcement that recognizes the increasing status of our airport in Canada's aviation network."

For more information on CATSA, visit www.catsa.gc.ca. To apply for NEXUS, visit www.nexus.gc.ca.

CATSA, established in 2002, is a Crown corporation responsible for:

• Pre-board screening - the screening of passengers, their carry-on baggage and their personal belongings;
• Hold-baggage screening - the screening of checked baggage;
• Non-passenger screening - the screening of non-passengers on a random basis; and
• Restricted Area Identity Card - the administration of access control to airport restricted areas through biometric identifiers. 

SOURCE: Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA)

Brayden Akers
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Steven Fletcher Minister of State (Transport)
613-991-0700

Mathieu Larocque
CATSA
613-998-4527
[email protected]