Cheap Flights – Air Travel
Many people will be traveling by air this season to reach their holiday destinations. Here are some things you should know to help eliminate unnecessary delays when going through airport security and to help you have a safe trip.
Before you leave for the Airport:
- Find out how many pieces of luggage you are allowed to take with you. Checked and carry-on baggage limits vary by airline and destination. It is a good idea to tag all your bags with your name and contact information before you get to the airport. Do not use your home address or business title.
- Pack your own bags; never let someone else do it.
- Liquids, gels and aerosols in containers with a capacity of 100 ml / 100 grams (3.4 oz.) or less are permitted through pre-board security screening as long as they fit comfortably in one (1) clear, closed and re-sealable plastic bag with a capacity of no more than 1 litre (1 quart). Please note that bags stretched beyond their capacity are not permitted. One bag per person. Learn more about security measures for liquids, gels and aerosols.
- Passengers may bring aboard baby formula, baby food, milk and juice if a child aged two years and under is accompanying them. These items are exempt from the size restrictions and are not required to be placed in a plastic bag. However, passengers must declare all such items to screening authorities. These passengers may be subject to additional screening.
- Prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger’s ticket, as well as insulin and other essential non-prescription medicines are permitted in carry-on baggage. To speed up the screening process, passengers should be prepared to present documentation supporting a medical condition, i.e. a doctor’s note. These items are exempt from the size restrictions and are not required to be placed in a plastic bag. However, passengers must declare all such items to screening authorities. These passengers may be subject to additional screening.
- Some liquids and aerosols can pose risks to health, safety or the environment when transported and are not permitted in checked or carry-on baggage. For more information, please refer to Transport Canada’s list of dangerous goods.
- Ensure there are no sharp objects like scissors in your carry-on bag. Pack them in your checked luggage instead.
- Make sure electronic devices such as cell phones, laptop computers and portable or electronic games are charged and ready to turn on for inspection, as you may be required to turn these devices on when going through airport security.
- Make sure you have an appropriate piece of government-issued photo ID with you, such as a driver’s licence for domestic travel or a passport for international travel. Keep your ID handy and accessible. You may be required to show it at the check-in counter and before boarding your flight.
- Know how early you should arrive at the airport. Check with your airline, because check-in times may vary by airline and destination.
- New security measures can cause delays for travellers. Be sure to arrive well before your departure time.
At the airport:
- Do not joke about hijackings or bombings. It is against the law.
- Do not accept parcels or letters from strangers for delivery to persons at your point of destination. Never carry anything onto a plane for anyone else.
- Never leave your luggage unattended, and keep your eyes on your bags at all times.
- If you see an unattended or suspicious bag or package, report it to airport security immediately.
- Bear in mind that you may have to remove some items, such as shoes, when going through airport security.
- Be aware that metal items may trigger metal detector alarms.
- After you have gone through airport security, you and your possessions may be subject to random screening just prior to boarding the aircraft.
During the flight:
- Pay close attention to the safety briefings at the beginning of the flight and know the location of all exits. Safety is everyone’s responsibility.
- Be aware of which electronic devices are and are not allowed to be used during the flight. If you are unsure of the rules, consult a crew member.
- Follow the instructions of the crew at all times and be respectful of them and the other passengers. It is illegal to behave in a threatening manner towards others on board the flight. Remember, everyone is entitled to travel in a safe and secure environment.
- Inform the crew of any disruptive behaviour, follow their instructions and be courteous.
- Drinking juice or water during your flight – instead of coffee or alcohol – will help keep you hydrated.
- Try doing seated leg exercises throughout the flight to help prevent stiffness.
