Watch above: The government announced new dedicated lines, less undressing for “trusted travellers” at airports. Sean O’Shea reports.
TORONTO – The federal government announced Wednesday it is expanding its NEXUS member program to make cross-border travelling easier for Canadian frequent flyers.
Under Canada’s “Trusted Travellers” initiative, those who have undergone extensive background checks can now access dedicated lines at four of Canada’s busiest airports in Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal.
Transport Minister Lisa Raitt said during the announcement at Toronto’s Pearson International Airport that Trusted Travelers will now include global entry members, uniformed air crew, and members of the Canadian and U.S. armed forces.
The additional dedicated lines means members can move through security checks quicker without having to remove shoes, belts or jackets; as well as keeping permitted liquids, aerosols and gels in carry-on bags.
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The federal government also announced an upgrade of its Trusted Traveller kiosks which will be installed at all airports in Canada where NEXUS is available.
The NEXUS program is a joint program administered with the United States and has more than one million members as of December 2014.
Canadians can apply to become a NEXUS member for a non-refundable fee of $50.
The government also announced the launch of a new online website to help travellers move through airports faster and easier during the holidays.
Users can access the online portal at Canada.ca/HolidayTravel with information on travel insurance, how to pack smart and how to expedite border wait times.
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