YYC launches new border technology to ease customs pressure point

The Calgary Airport Authority has announced, in partnership with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), that international and U.S. passengers will use primary inspection kiosks (PIK) as they enter Canada at YYC Calgary International Airport.

Guests will no longer be required to fill out standard paper declaration cards (E311 forms) once all PIK units are installed and operating.

YYC and the CBSA also encourage guests to install the CanBorder eDeclaration mobile app, available on all platforms, to their phones, prepare their declaration in advance and then scan their quick response (QR) code at a designated kiosk upon arrival.

Michael Hayward, Vice President, Marketing and Guest Experience, The Calgary Airport Authority, said: “Once downloaded to your device, the mobile app can reduce the time it takes to complete the Canadian customs process by up to 50 per cent – every time you enter the country. The app even works in your phone’s ‘Airplane Mode’ so no data is required and, along with the kiosks, streamlines the process for guests arriving at YYC.” 

Mike Maxwell, Vice President, Infrastructure and Chief Information Officer, The Calgary Airport Authority, said: “The airport has been working very closely with CBSA on this transition and bringing this new technology to passengers. I would like to thank everyone for their hard work as we improve our guests’ experience at YYC.”

Nina Patel, Director of Central Alberta District, CBSA Prairie Region, said: “The CBSA is pleased to work with our partner, the Calgary Airport Authority, to bring the primary inspection kiosks to YYC Calgary International Airport. Facilitating a simplified and quicker digital border process at YYC is a priority for the CBSA.”

In total, 80 kiosks will replace the existing 43 units, providing all arriving international and Canadian passengers with a simplified self-service option. The first 36 PIK units will be available for guests arriving at the end of May. The remaining units will be put into use as they are setup until the 4 June 2019, when all PIK units will be installed. During this transition time, longer lines and delays may occur for incoming international and U.S. arriving passengers.