Canadian Airport Seniors Checklist

🕐 24-48 Hours Before Your Flight

Check in online and print boarding pass (large font easier to read) Request wheelchair assistance if needed (call airline 48-72 hours ahead) Confirm flight status and gate information Pack medications in carry-on with prescription labels visible

🚪 Finding Gate & Boarding

Check flight monitors to confirm gate number Ask staff for directions if unsure - don't hesitate! Use airport trains/shuttles for long distances (Toronto, Vancouver) Rest in comfortable seating areas if you have time Arrive at gate 30 minutes before departure Ask gate agent about pre-boarding for seniors Board early to store carry-on without rush Request flight attendant assistance with overhead luggage if needed

🕐 When Should Seniors Arrive at Canadian Airports?

Domestic Flights: Arrive 2.5 hours before departure (extra time for assistance) International Flights: Arrive 3.5 hours before departure (more time for customs) With Wheelchair Assistance: Add 30 minutes for wheelchair service coordination

💡 Pro Tips for Senior Travelers

Carry Medications: Always keep medications in your carry-on bag, never in checked luggage. Bring enough for your trip plus 3-5 extra days. Keep them in original prescription bottles for easy CATSA screening. Stay Hydrated & Comfortable: Bring an empty water bottle through security and fill it after. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and slip-on shoes. Bring a light sweater as Canadian airports can be cool.

🎒 What to Pack in Your Carry-On

👕 What to Wear for Easy CATSA Screening

Slip-on shoes (easy to remove/put on) Comfortable, loose clothing (minimal metal buttons/zippers) Light jacket/cardigan (easy to remove) Belt without large metal buckle (or wear pants with elastic waist) Minimal jewelry (avoid heavy metal pieces)

🏢 At the Airport - Arrival

Arrive 2.5 hours early for domestic flights (3.5 hours for international) Add 30 minutes if you requested wheelchair assistance Meet wheelchair attendant at designated pickup area Check in at counter if you didn't check in online Check luggage if needed

🛡️ CATSA Security Checkpoint

Seniors 65-74 Discretionary Courtesy:

• Officers may allow shoes to stay on at their discretion
• CATSA Passenger Support Specialists available for assistance
• Feel free to ask for help or clarification at any time

Seniors 75+ Discretionary Courtesy:

• Officers may allow shoes to stay on
• CATSA Passenger Support Specialists available
• NEXUS members keep shoes, jacket, belt on

Have ID and boarding pass ready Inform CATSA officer about medical devices or medications BEFORE screening Remove 3-1-1 liquids bag from carry-on and place in bin Empty pockets completely (keys, phone, wallet, coins) Request assistance if you need help with bins or items Take your time - CATSA officers won't rush you Collect all items from bins before leaving checkpoint