CATSA is collaborating with various airports across Canada to deploy Computed Tomography (CT) technology at Pre-Board Screening (PBS)checkpoints over a multi-year period.
What is CT?
CT technology uses advanced three-dimensional rotatable X-ray images making it easier for screening officers to analyze bag contents and to detect explosives and other threat items when screening carry-on baggage. CATSA’s current screening technology at PBS checkpoints uses two-dimensional images.
Advantages of CT
As a result of its enhanced threat detection capabilities, passengers screened at a pre-board screening line equipped with CT technology will be able to keep large electronics (e.g. laptops), medical devices and permitted liquids, aerosols and gels (100mL or less each) in their carry-on baggage. However, permitted liquids over 100ml must be removed from carry-on baggage and placed in a bin.
Signage will be displayed in front of all lines or checkpoints that have CT X-ray technology available. If there is no CT sign displayed, passengers will need to remove their permitted liquids, aerosols and gels, along with large electronics from their carry-on baggage to be screened separately.
Health and Safety
CATSA rigorously tested the new CT technology during trials at two airports and at its test facility, ensuring its reliability and effectiveness.
The technology meets all required safety standards set by Health Canada, including the Radiation Emitting Devices Act and its regulations, and by the Canadian safety standards for electrical equipment.