Government of Canada navigation bar

Symbol of the Government of Canada

Primary site navigation bar

Breadcrumb

  1. Home
  2. Media Room
  3. Backgrounders
  4. Prohibited Item List

Prohibited Item List

Transport Canada manages the list of items that airline passengers are permitted to carry through pre-board screening checkpoints at Canada's major airports.

Air travellers are now permitted to bring in their carry-on baggage small scissors and tools that are no longer than six centimetres (excluding the handle). Knives of any size or length remain prohibited.

Small scissors and tools pose a low threat to aircraft safety and security, particularly in light of recent developments in aircraft integrity such as reinforced cockpit doors, improved aircrew security training, the presence of in-flight security officers and programs like Passenger Protect.

The Government of Canada has directed the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA), which is responsible for airport security screening, to focus on better and smarter screening, and on checking for higher-threat items such as explosives. Restrictions on the amount of liquids, aerosols and gels remain. In addition, toys that resemble real weapons will continue to be prohibited but those that are clearly toys will be permitted.

The changes to Canada's prohibited items list improve aviation security and make the passenger screening process more effective, efficient and convenient for travellers.

These changes correspond to the International Civil Aviation Organization's (ICAO's) recommendation to permit small scissors and tools. The updated list is also harmonized with the lists of many of Canada's international partners, including the United States and the European Union, which made similar changes years ago. While the list of prohibited items is incorporated into the regulation, the Minister of Transport can amend the list when necessary for security reasons, if required by another country or to harmonize with the ICAO list.

Transport Canada remains committed to harmonizing the prohibited items list with international partners while achieving a level of security that is appropriate for passengers travelling from or between Canadian destinations. The department will continue to strengthen the aviation security program in a way that balances security, efficiency and Canadian values.

The complete list of non-permitted items on board aircraft is available on the Transport Canada website.

February 2011

Date modified:
2011-02-22