Travel Advisory: NO-FLY LIST

As the Travel industry in general, and Tour Operators in particular, adapt to the reality and potential problems that might occur given the institution of a Canadian "No-Fly" List, called the "Passenger Protect" Program, the Canadian Association of Tour Operators (CATO) addressed the issue.

At a recent Conference call by the members of the Canadian Association of Tour Operators, it was agreed that Travel Agents and Tour Operators should advise their passengers to go to the airport earlier than usual as a precautionary measure. This to allow sufficient time to resolve any potential issues in cases where the passenger's name might have appeared on the list in error.

Also discussed were the passenger identification requirements which are becoming increasingly more restrictive. Proper identification, as well as exact name matching on documents and tickets are now crucial. Accepted documents and information on the above can be found on the Transport Canada web site at http://passengerprotect.gc.ca/identity.html. Passengers must be aware of these requirements and constraints prior to arriving at airports in order to avoid serious disappointment and perhaps costly consequences.

CATO is the Association of Canada's major international Tour Operators. See www.cato.ca for more information.