Victoria airport says long lineups at security ‘unacceptable’, provider apologizes

Long lineups at airport security screenings are being reported across the country.

“I know that there’s a big issue right now with security backed up for hours and people not making their flights,” said Molly Harris.

And Victoria isn’t immune.

“Over the last number of weeks, we’ve had wait times that were in excess of an hour, in excess of an hour and a half, which is completely unacceptable,” said Ken Gallant, vice president of operations at Victoria International Airport.

Gallant says complaints are up over the last few months, as some travellers barely make their flights or miss them altogether.

The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) blames pandemic-related staffing shortages for the long lines, but the employees’ union — in the midst of bargaining — says poor pay is to blame, something that doesn’t appear likely to change.

“Quite frankly, they’re offering zero per cent. Quite frankly, zero per cent won’t fly,” said Dave Flowers, with CATSA’s union.

Facing growing backlash, CATSA CEO Mike Saunders apologized via press release for the inconvenience to air travellers saying they’re “working aggressively to address the situation.”

“We are continuing to work with our screening contractors to take all steps possible to increase staffing levels,” said Saunders.

Meanwhile, airports are only getting busier.

The Victoria International Airport logged its busiest day since the pandemic hit on Monday.

“We had nearly 2,900 passengers depart through YYJ which would be the highest number per day going back to Christmas season 2019,” said Gallant.

With no quick fix, passengers should expect the lineups to continue, especially at peak travel times in the morning, between 7-11 a.m.

Victoria airport suggests arriving 90 minutes to two hours before a flight.

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