Air Canada Offering Benefits of TSA Pre Program at U.S. Airports

Air Canada customers travelling from the U.S. can now obtain electronic boarding passes at U.S. airports, not only making check-in and boarding simpler but also giving them easier access to the TSA Pre program.

The pre-check system uses features such as dedicated lanes and less intrusive search measures to make it easier for pre-approved travellers to pass through security.

"Air Canada is pleased to now offer customers the convenience of mobile check-in and e-boarding passes at U.S. airports we serve. This will also make it easier for eligible customers to access the TSA Pre program, a welcome smart security initiative that saves time and avoids cumbersome requirements such as removing shoes and belts," said Benjamin Smith, President, Passenger Airlines at Air Canada. "For frequent business travellers TSA Pre is attractive because many already have Nexus or other recognized security documents to qualify. As the only foreign airline approved for TSA Pre, it is another way Air Canada is distinguishing itself in the transborder business market."

Electronic boarding passes are now, or soon-to-be, available for all 52 U.S. airports that Air Canada serves, allowing customers to complete their web check-in and obtain their boarding pass via e-mail or text message.

Customers completing mobile check-in for departures from any airport in the U.S. can also now obtain their boarding pass directly on their smartphone, providing a seamless mobile check-in experience.

Customers who are eligible for pre-check will no longer be required to print their boarding pass at the airport with an Air Canada agent or from an Air Canada self-service check-in kiosk to take advantage of expedited security clearance.

TSA Pre is a U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Transportation Security Administration (TSA) risk-based security initiative which allows low-risk travellers to experience expedited, more efficient security screening at U.S. airport checkpoints for domestic and international travel.

Among those eligible for the program are Canadian citizens who belong to NEXUS, U.S. citizens with a Known Traveller Number or those who belong to Global Entry.