Practical information from the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority about dealing with special needs when flying.
It's well-known that airport security is stricter (and often slower) than it used to be. Hard to believe that there was a day when we could all carry toothpaste and lipstick on board the plane!
The security screening at Canadian airports is similar to that in the U.S.A.
Passing through the Pre-Board Screening should be the same fine experience whether you have special needs or not. However, if you know what to expect before you go, you may avoid some unexpected problems.
This webpage from the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority covers a wide selection of special needs. Some of the headings are:
- Disabled (mobility, visual, hearing, pain or sensitivity);
- Carrying Prescription Drugs - make sure they have the professional label from the pharmacist on them;
- Using Medical Implants (e.g. insulin pump), Artificial Limbs, Mobility Aids - you may have to provide medical information to verify your condition;
- Carrying Religious, Cultural, or Ceremonial Items - put knives in your checked bags;
- Assisting Unaccompanied Children, Elderly Persons, or Persons with Other Special Needs - contact the airline you are travelling with to see if you can get a gate pass, because if not, you will have to say good-bye at the security gate;
- Travelling with Infants or Small Children - no toy guns or weapons are allowed;
- Pregnant;
- Travelling with a Service Animal - find out your airline's policy well in advance and be prepared for an inspection of anything the animal is carrying.
The website tells you in more detail how to deal with pre-board screening in any of these cases. The main message is, don't wait until you get to the airport. Think about whether any of the special needs cover your situation, and do as much as you can in advance.
If you know of a useful summary like this for the U.S.A. or any other country, please, send it along.
