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Security Information

Pack smart and fly secure. YVR has packing tips for carry-on and checked baggage and answers to your security questions.

Passenger pre-board screening

  • Passengers require a pre-board screening before going to their gate for departure.
  • YVR has security checkpoints in the Domestic, International, USA and South Terminals.
  • Passengers should follow signs to their assigned gate for the closest security checkpoint.
  • Learn more about the pre-board screening process on CATSA’s website.
  • You may be subject to spot check inspections within the gate holdroom areas.
  • K9 units and security staff are on regular patrol throughout the terminal.

Verified Traveller Program

photo of traveller
  • CATSA's Verified Traveller program offers eligible passengers faster security screening. Travellers must show valid ID and be part of an approved group, including NEXUS, Global Entry, RAIC holders, military, or police.
  • Where available, Verified Travellers can use dedicated lanes for a streamlined screening experience. At other checkpoints, Verified Travellers will receive access to the Security Express lane for front‑of‑the‑line access, but undergo standard screening.
  • At YVR:
  • Express lane access: ABC South, D Gates, USA Connections.
  • For more information on the Verified Traveller Program, please visit CATSA’s website here.

YVR Security Express Program

  • The Security Express program offers expedited screening to eligible individuals. This includes airline priority passengers: those flying Business Class and Premium Class, as well as elite loyalty members e.g., Aeroplan 35K+, Star Alliance Gold, and SkyPriority. Additionally, Fairmont Gold guests are eligible for the Security Express program.

Eligible passengers can use dedicated E-Gates at the Security Checkpoints ABC North, ABC South (Canada departures), and D checkpoint (International departures), to validate their status and access the express lane. Security Express passengers departing from E Checkpoint (USA Departures), have their eligibility manually validated by a staff member.

Pack smart

To help ensure security and speed up the pre-board screening process, plan ahead and learn about what to pack and how to pack to make your trip go smoothly.

Liquids, gels and aerosols

  • Containers must be 100ml or less and fit in a clear, 1L bag. Items purchased from an airline or airport retailer and properly sealed in official security bags and accompanied by a receipt will also be accepted.
  • Learn more about packing liquids including exemptions.

Permitted and not permitted items

Find a complete list of items permitted and non-permitted in checked and carry-on baggage. 

Dangerous goods

Learn about goods considered dangerous and not allowed in checked or carry-on baggage.

Questions?

If you have comments or questions for CATSA:

Call CATSA at 1.888.294.2202.

Contact CATSA via their website.

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