TORONTO – The organization that runs Toronto’s Pearson International Airport is “urgently” calling on the federal government to help alleviate major delays affecting passengers at security and clearance points amid a shortage of staff.

The Greater Toronto Airports Authority says Ottawa needs to make investments to boost staffing levels and bring in more technology, as well as “streamline or eliminate” COVID-19 public health requirements to deal with the issue.

Passengers have faced extremely long lines on their way to departing flights recently, while others have had to wait hours after arriving due to backlogs at security screening points.

The Vancouver International Airport is also experiencing delays and on Sunday urged passengers to arrive two to three hours ahead of their flights in order to get through the security screening process.

Calgary and Montreal’s major airports have also been suggesting travellers arrive extra early.

The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority, which deals with pre-flight screening, said in a statement Monday that it is taking “all steps possible” to increase staffing levels.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May5, 2022.