Canada Pioneers The Future Of Air Travel Efficiency With Groundbreaking Security Technology Revolutionizing Vancouver International Airport’s Passenger Experience

Published on December 13, 2025

Vancouver International Airport is leading the way in air travel innovation by introducing CATSA Plus technology, setting a new benchmark for security screening in Canada. This revolutionary system enhances passenger experience by speeding up the security process, allowing travelers to keep liquids and large electronics in their carry-on bags while maintaining high safety standards. The introduction of this technology marks a significant shift towards more efficient and less stressful air travel, benefiting passengers across the country.

For over a year, passengers traveling through some of Vancouver International Airport’s (YVR) domestic security checkpoints have experienced quicker processing times and reduced stress. This has been made possible by the introduction of advanced security technology, which allows travelers to keep liquids, gels, aerosols, and large electronics inside their carry-on bags while passing through security, streamlining the process considerably.

The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) introduced next-generation Computed Tomography (CT) X-ray equipment, known as CATSA Plus, to enhance the security screening process. The system uses advanced 3D imaging to create rotatable X-ray images, enabling security personnel to examine baggage contents with greater precision. This technology has proven effective in identifying potential threats, including explosives, without compromising safety standards. It replaces older 2D X-ray systems that required more manual scrutiny.

The new equipment was initially installed at a domestic checkpoint in September 2024, marking the first phase of CATSA’s efforts to modernize security at Canadian airports. Last week, another domestic checkpoint, located near the food court, reopened after being temporarily closed for the installation of the same equipment. This marks a significant step forward in the expansion of this technology across the airport.

Building on the success of this rollout, YVR has announced plans to extend the CATSA Plus technology to all security checkpoints throughout the airport by 2026. This includes the U.S. transborder and international departure checkpoints, with one of the international lines already equipped with the new technology. This makes YVR one of the first Canadian airports to deploy this system, which CATSA plans to introduce at other airports across the country to improve air travel efficiency and safety.

The introduction of this technology is not only aimed at improving the passenger experience but also at reducing CATSA’s labor requirements. With more automated systems in place, security checkpoints can operate more efficiently, processing passengers quickly while maintaining stringent safety standards. This represents a shift towards more streamlined airport procedures, while still ensuring high levels of security.

This upgrade also symbolizes a slight reversal of some of the stricter security measures introduced after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. In the wake of those events, security screening became significantly more stringent. Passengers and baggage underwent extensive checks, including the restriction of liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on bags, as well as more thorough screening of electronics like laptops and mobile phones. Before 9/11, security was far less restrictive, and passengers could walk directly to gate areas without a boarding pass, a contrast to the current security-heavy environment.

The restrictions on liquids and gels in carry-on luggage first came into effect in 2006 after authorities foiled a major plot involving liquid explosives intended for transatlantic flights. Similarly, more comprehensive screening of electronics, such as smartphones and large devices, was introduced in the following years to mitigate potential threats.

With the introduction of CATSA Plus, YVR has successfully implemented a cutting-edge system that eases the security experience for passengers while maintaining high standards of safety. As the technology continues to expand across Canadian airports, passengers can look forward to smoother, faster security procedures, marking a significant improvement in the travel experience.