Print-at-home and electronic bag tags improve travellers' experience at airports

Self-tagging will make air travel more convenient for Canadians

OTTAWA, June 17, 2016 /CNW/ - The Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, announced the new "e-Tag" initiative during a Facebook Live consultation with Canadians aimed at improving passengers' experience. The initiative will make check-in more convenient and faster for travellers by allowing them to apply their own baggage tags on checked luggage before heading to the airport.

As of June 16, 2016, airlines can offer self-tagging options to passengers:

• Self-print bag tag: passengers print their bag tag from a personal device during online check-in, before heading to the airport. The printed tag is placed in a reusable holder and attached to the bag.
• Electronic bag tag: passengers use a reusable plastic tag with an electronic ink screen (similar to an e-reader) provided by the airline. The tag is connected by wireless technology and updates its destination information via the airline's application.

Quotes

"Yesterday's online consultation and new self-tagging options for Canadians demonstrates the department's commitment to making the best use of technology and changing how we think about travel. With e-tagging, Canadians and their families can check-in faster so that they spend less time in line and more time enjoying the travel experience."

The Honourable Marc Garneau
Minister of Transport

"Air travelers want the ability to do more things for themselves and to take more control over the travel process. By approving this baggage self-tagging initiative, Transport Canada is enabling airlines to respond to that need. Canada is among the leaders in this area. It's a great example for others to learn from."

Tony Tyler
Director General and Chief Executive Officer
International Air Transport Association

Quick Facts

• All airlines can start offering the e-tagging options immediately for all flights departing a Canadian airport.

Related Product

• Infographic: e-Tag Initiative

Associated Link

• Facebook Live event

Transport Canada is online at www.tc.gc.ca. Subscribe to e-news or stay connected through RSS, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Flickr to keep up to date on the latest from Transport Canada.

This news release may be made available in alternative formats for persons living with visual disabilities.

SOURCE Transport Canada