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A new coalition comprising Destination Toronto, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, and the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) is calling for the rapid rollout of an expanded Canadian trusted traveller program in line with the government’s commitment to expedite digital solutions at borders to ensure seamless traffic through Canada’s airports.
The coalition – Innovate. Travel. Canada. (ITC) – includes business leaders in sectors ranging from events and tourism, to business and city building. Its objective is to advocate for long-term innovative and technology-based initiatives to help Toronto Pearson remain a world-class airport.
Speaking at the launch of the coalition, GTAA president and CEO Deborah Flint said the GTAA is committed to advocating for a better travel experience for international and local travellers through Toronto Pearson and other Canadian airports, noting that air travel in Canada has faced significant challenges restarting business following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Deborah Flint"ITC is encouraging the federal government to rapidly roll out an expanded trusted traveller program to streamline pre-board screenaing, digitize cross-border travel and make it easier to arrive.
President and CEO, Greater Toronto Airports Authority
“ITC is encouraging the federal government to rapidly roll out an expanded trusted traveller program to streamline pre-board screening, digitize cross-border travel and make it easier to arrive.”
If implemented, an expanded trusted traveller program could reduce security inspection of shoes and laptops and allow more passengers to be safely vetted.
Rocco Rossi, president and CEO of Ontario Chamber of Commerce, said trusted traveller programs have been implemented worldwide and provide a safe and efficient way to clear low-risk travellers and offer a quick solution for reducing lines at airport security.
“Canada is years behind its peer countries in the G7 and G20 in implemented digital solutions at the border,” he added. “Now is the time for Canada to announce the rapid rollout of an expanded Canadian-led trusted traveller program.”
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