Alcohol or Liquor

In carry-on baggage

Alcohol brought onboard a Canadian North flight cannot be consumed on board.

In checked baggage

Alcohol in unopened retail packaging purchased before a security checkpoint or homemade beer or wine, must be packed in your checked baggage. Homemade liquor is not permitted, as the alcohol content cannot be verified.

Restrictions

• Alcohol over 70% alcohol by volume (140 proof) is prohibited (including 95% grain alcohol and 150 proof rum).
• Up to 5 liters (1.3 gallons) of alcoholic beverages with alcohol content between 24% and 70% (140 proof) is accepted per passenger as checked baggage in its original retail packaging.
• There is no restriction on the amount of alcohol you may pack in your checked luggage, provided it contains under 24% alcohol by volume (48 proof), such as beer or wine.

Avalanche Rescue Backpacks

One avalanche backpack will be accepted per passenger in either carry-on or checked baggage on domestic flights, under the following conditions:

• The backpack is suitably packed so that it cannot be activated accidentally.
• Its pyrotechnic trigger mechanism does not contain more than 200 mg net of explosive substance as per IATA Division 1.4S.
• It contains one cartridge of compressed gas as per IATA Division 2.2.
• The airbags within the backpack are fitted with pressure relief valves
• Avalanche rescue backpacks must be declared at airport check-in and require airline approval before they are accepted as baggage.

Avalanche transceivers are accepted in both carry-on and checked baggage, however, the batteries must be removed from the unit and transported in carry-on baggage. Each battery should be placed in its own protective case or have the terminals protected with tape to prevent short-circuiting.

Battery Operated Personal Transportation Devices

These personal transport vehicles are not accepted in either checked baggage or carry-on baggage due to safety concerns associated with the lithium batteries that power them. Please contact a Canadian North’s Cargo representative to see if they can be transported by cargo.

• Hoverboards
• Airwheels
• Balance wheels / balance glider
• Electric skateboards
• Electric bikes
• Mini-Segways
• Recreational scooters

Camping Equipment

The following are accepted in your checked baggage:

• Unused camping stove in its original, unopened package
• Used camping stove that has contained flammable liquid will be accepted only if:
  • The fuel tank/fuel cell has been removed from the stove, drained of all liquid fuel and rinsed with a neutralizing agent such as cooking oil
  • The fuel tank is closed with the cap securely fastened, wrapped in absorbent material such as paper towel and then placed in a polyethylene or equivalent bag
  • The top of the bag must be sealed or gathered and closed with an elastic band

If the fuel tank has not been flushed or any fuel smell is detected during the check-in process (including an inspection), the item will be denied carriage.

The following are not accepted in either your carry-on or checked baggage:

• Fuel tablets
• Camping stove gas cartridges or refills
• Flammable gas canisters

Cannabis

Medical cannabis

Passengers authorized by Health Canada to carry medical cannabis (marijuana) must present legal documentation permitting possession if the amount of medical cannabis they are carrying appears to be more than the legal limit for recreational cannabis (30 grams) As part of standard procedure, Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) screening officers may call local authorities to verify the validity of the documents. This process can take significantly longer than normal screenings as authorities may have to be called from off site, depending on the airport. For this reason, it is suggested that passengers allocate extra time for security screening when travelling with medical cannabis over the legal limit for recreational cannabis.

Canadian North is not responsible for the delay caused by additional screening and will not compensate passengers who have missed their flights.

Cannabis for recreational use

Travelling within Canada you are permitted to carry cannabis within the legalized personal possession limits (up to 30 grams). This is subject to requirements that may be introduced by authorities.

Cannabis must be kept stowed in carry-on luggage at all times and cannot be consumed, rolled or otherwise exposed to the cabin or other passengers at any time.

Defense Sprays and Disabling Devices

Devices specifically designed to stun, disable or immobilize are not permitted onboard the aircraft. These include:

• Devices for shocking, such as tasers, stun guns, and stun batons
• Animal stunners
• Disabling and incapacitating chemicals, gases and sprays, such as mace, pepper sprays, bear spray, capsicum sprays, tear gas, acid sprays and animal repellent sprays.

Drones

Whether you can bring your drone in checked or carry-on baggage is determined by the size (Watt-hour rating) of the lithium-ion battery as follows:

• Where the lithium-ion battery exceeds 160 Wh, the device is prohibited in either checked or carry-on baggage.
• Where the lithium-ion battery exceeds 100 Wh but does not exceed 160 Wh, you may have the device in either checked or carry-on baggage, but approval of the airline is required.
  • Maximum of 2 spare batteries permitted in carry-on baggage only.
  • Spare lithium batteries of any type are prohibited in checked baggage because of the potential fire hazard.

In carry-on baggage

Drones in carry-on baggage must remain turned off. The carry-on bag must meet the carry-on baggage size and weight requirements and be safely stowed at all times. Drones cannot be used at any airport or onboard the aircraft.

When going through security with a drone, your gear may be subject to additional screening. Bear in mind that the final decision on whether you can bring this item through the airport security check-point rests with that airport security officials.

In checked baggage

Drones are accepted in checked baggage providing that the lithium batteries have been removed from the drone and carried onboard in your carry-on baggage. Drones must be properly packaged for shipping.

Dry Ice or Gel/Ice Packs

Dry ice

Dry ice can be used to keep perishable items (e.g. seafood) cool in your carry-on or checked baggage provided the following conditions are met:

• Dry ice must be declared at check-in.
• Weight of dry ice must not exceed 2.5 kg (5 lb) per passenger.
• Items must be properly packaged to prevent leakage in a box or container that:
  • Is properly ventilated to allow the release of carbon dioxide
  • Is in good condition and free of any damage
• Each package must be clearly marked “Dry Ice” or “Carbon Dioxide Solid”, must show the net weight of dry ice and identify the perishable item being preserved by the dry ice.

If your itinerary includes a connecting flight with another airline you may NOT travel with a dry ice container as checked baggage due to special handling requirements.

Gel or ice packs

Gel or ice packs in carry-on baggage are subject to all liquid and gel restrictions. If possible, we encourage you to use frozen peas/vegetables as an alternative to gel packs to keep your perishable items in your carry-on fresh.

Exceptions:

• Gel or ice packs that are used to refrigerate medication are exempt from these restrictions, provided the medication bears a label or is accompanied by a doctor’s/pharmacist’s note stating that refrigeration is required.
• Gel packs used to refrigerate baby food, breast milk or formula for infants younger than two years of age are also permitted in your carry-on.
• Gel packs in checked baggage are accepted without restrictions.

Electronic Cigarettes or Vaporizers

In carry-on baggage

These devices may be carried in the aircraft cabin under the following conditions:

• The battery can remain installed but the device must be carried on your person to prevent accidental activation.
• Spare batteries must be protected from short circuit and carried in carry-on baggage.
• Any liquid components must meet safety restrictions for liquids in carry-on baggage.
• E-cigarettes cannot be used onboard the aircraft.

In checked baggage

E-cigarettes are not permitted in checked baggage due to their lithium battery’s propensity to catch fire

Firearms and Ammunition

Hunting rifles and shotguns are accepted with Canadian North, with the following conditions:

• Firearm is checked as baggage
• Firearm is unloaded at the time of check in
• Firearm is secure and trigger locked
• Firearm is in a hard sided, non see-through, locked case that cannot be easily broken into during transport
• Ammunition must be packed securely in the manufacturer’s original container and placed inside a suitcase cushioned with clothing
• Only shells or cartridges are acceptable types of ammunition. Gunpowder and gunpowder pellets are strictly prohibited
• You must complete and sign the Firearm Declaration, available at the check-in counter on the day of your travel
• If your firearm is in excess of your baggage allowance, additional baggage charges will apply.

Fireworks, Christmas Crackers and Sparklers

Fire crackers, Christmas crackers, party poppers, sparklers or fireworks present a number of hazards, including explosivity and flammability.

They are not accepted as either checked or carry-on baggage on Canadian North.

Fuel Cell Systems

Fuel cells and up to 2 spare fuel cartridges for powering portable electronic devices (e.g. laptops, cell phones or cameras) are accepted in your carry-on only.

Refueling of fuel cells on board an aircraft is not permitted. Installation of a spare cartridge is allowed.

The maximum quantity of fuel in any fuel cell or fuel cell cartridge must not exceed the following:

• 200 ml (6.7 fl oz) for liquids
• 200 g (0.4 lb or 7 oz) for solids
• 120 ml (4 fl oz) for liquefied gas (non-metallic)
• 200 ml (6.7 fl oz) for liquefied gas (metal)

The fuel cell cartridges must have a water capacity of 120 ml (4 fl oz) or less for hydrogen in metal hydride. Each fuel cell or cartridge must be marked with the maximum quantity and type of fuel.

Each fuel cell or cartridge must be marked with a manufacturer’s certification that it conforms to IEC PAS 62282–6–100 Ed.1 and must be durably marked by the manufacturer: “APPROVED FOR CARRIAGE IN AIRCRAFT CABIN ONLY.”

Fuel cells whose sole function is to charge a battery in the device are not permitted.

Gasoline Powered Devices

Gasoline-powered equipment, such as chainsaws and snow blowers, are only allowed if it’s new and in its original packaging and has never been opened. You may not check gasoline or any other flammable fuel to power the device.

Heat Generating Equipment

Curling irons containing hydrocarbon gas

One gas-operated curling iron is accepted per person:

• without the gas container in your carry-on baggage or
• with its hydrocarbon gas container in your checked baggage provided the safety cover is securely fitted over the heating element.

Separate gas refills are not permitted in either carry-on or checked baggage.

Battery-operated equipment capable of generating extreme heat

Items such as underwater torches, diving lamps or soldering irons are accepted in checked baggage as long as the following requirements are met:

• The device and its batteries must be declared and approved at check-in.
• Heat-producing component and the battery must be isolated from each other by the removal of the heat-producing component.
• The battery or another component (e.g. fuse); and any battery which has been removed must be protected against short circuit (by placement in original retail packaging or by otherwise insulating terminals, e.g. by taping over exposed terminals or placing each battery in a separate plastic bag or protective pouch).

Heated Clothing

Can you wear heated clothing when travelling on Canadian North flights? Yes, as long as they are powered off.

You can pack heated clothing in your checked baggage as long as the battery it contains is removable. You must remove the battery and carry it with you in your carry-on baggage (see Lithium Battery rules).

Heated clothing with a non-removable lithium-ion battery are not accepted in checked baggage on Canadian North flights as they pose a fire risk on board the aircraft.

Lighters and Matches

Lighters or matches are not permitted in checked baggage.

You can carry the following on board:

• One small book of safety matches or
• One small lighter (for example, common Bic-style lighter)

The following items are prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage

• Strike-anywhere matches
• Torch or windproof lighters
• Lighter fluid
• Lighters with oil tanks not containing absorbent material (cotton)
• Cigar lighters (those producing a strong blue flame) and pistol-shaped lighters cannot be checked in with baggage or carried on board.

Please make sure not to leave any lighters in the cabin when disembarking.

Liquids, Gels and Aerosols

Carry-on baggage

Safety regulations limit the quantity of liquids, aerosols and gels that can be transported in your carry-on baggage. To speed up security screening, please ensure that the liquids, personal/toiletry items and non-solid food in your carry-on are packaged properly before arriving at the airport

• All liquids, gels and aerosols, pastes, lotions, creams, drinks and other items of similar consistency must be in containers with a capacity no greater than 100 ml (3.4 oz).
• Containers must be packed in a transparent, re-sealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity not exceeding 1 litre.
• Only 1 bag is allowed per traveler, and must be taken out of carry-on baggage for inspection at airport security.
• Exemptions will be made for medications, baby products, and special dietary requirements.
• Containers larger than 100 ml will not be accepted, even if they are only partially filled.

Checked baggage

Any containers larger than 100 ml (3.4 oz) should be packed in your checked baggage as long as they are not containing prohibited items.

Toiletry articles or aerosols such as deodorant, hair spray, insect repellant and nail polish remover are accepted as checked baggage providing that:

• They do not exceed a maximum limit of 500 g or 500 ml (16 oz) per container
• Release valves must be protected by a cap to prevent inadvertent release of the contents.

The total net quantity of toiletry articles and aerosols in checked baggage must not exceed 2 kg or 2 L (70 oz) per person.

The following items are not accepted in your carry-on or checked baggage:

• Canned oxygen (also known as recreational or flavoured oxygen)
• Alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content of 70% or more

Lithium Batteries

Lithium cells or batteries power many consumer electronic devices and medical devices, like watches, laptop batteries, calculators, cell phones, hearing aids and much more. You can bring lithium-battery powered devices as carry-on items or in checked baggage.  Spare lithium batteries are allowed as carry-on items only with batteries individually protected to prevent short circuit.

Examples of Lithium Batteries

• Small lithium batteries and cells (<100Wh) – mobile phones, cameras, watches, portable music players, most original laptop computer batteries
• Medium lithium batteries and cells (110-160Wh) – extended life batteries for laptop computers and batteries used by audiovisual professionals
• Large lithium batteries and cells (>160Wh) – found in some electric and hybrid vehicles, mobility devices or scooters

As per IATA Table 2.3.A

Tips to properly transport spare lithium batteries:

• Pack spare batteries in carry-on baggage.
• Keep spare batteries in the original retail packaging to prevent unintentional activation or short-circuiting.
• If original packaging is not available, effectively insulate battery terminals by isolating spare batteries from contact with other batteries and/or metal.
• Specifically, place each battery in its own protective case, plastic bag or package, or place tape across the battery’s contacts to isolate terminals.
• Take steps to prevent crushing, puncturing, or putting a high degree of pressure on the battery, as this can cause an internal short circuit, resulting in overheating.

Size Limits for Lithium Batteries:

Passengers are permitted to travel with lithium ion batteries that contain a maximum of 160-watt hours per battery.  Any lithium ion battery containing more than 160-watt hours is prohibited from carriage on all passenger aircraft. Lithium ion batteries installed in a personal electronic device can be transported as checked or carry-on baggage. Lithium ion batteries not installed in a device (spares) must be in carry-on baggage and no more than two (2) spares between 100 and 160-watt hours are allowed.

Quantity Limits for Lithium Batteries:

Each person is limited to a maximum of 20 spare batteries.

For more information on Lithium Batteries, visit Transport Canada’s Travelling with Lithium Batteries by Air page and Catsa’s What Can I Bring, and Guidelines for Batteries page. Damaged, defective or recalled lithium batteries must not be carried in carry-on or checked baggage.

Mercury Thermometers and Barometers

Mercurial barometer or mercurial thermometer carried by a representative of a government weather bureau or similar official agency is permitted as carry-on baggage only as long as it is declared and approved at airport check-in.

The barometer or thermometer must be packed in a bag of strong leak-proof and puncture-resistant material impervious to mercury, which will prevent the escape of mercury from the package.

MREs (Meals, Ready to eat)

MREs – Meals Ready to Eat – and self-heating meals or beverages are not accepted on board our aircraft, in either carry-on or checked baggage.

Other Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT)

For safety reasons, Canadian North does not accept hazardous goods for transport.

The following items are examples of hazardous materials (HAZMAT) or dangerous goods that are not allowed on a Canadian North flight, in either carry-on or in checked baggage:

• Corrosives such as acids, mercury, alkaline or cell battery liquids
• Explosives (blasting caps, dynamite, pyrotechnic materials, signal rockets, gunpowder)
• Household cleaners (bleach, cleaning solvents, drain cleaners, spray disinfectants, starch)
• Flammable liquids or solids (strike anywhere matches, windproof lighters, fuel, paint etc.)
• Gases
• Oxidizing substances such as bleach and peroxide
• Radioactive material
• Smoke-generating canisters and smoke-generating cartridges
• Toxic and infectious substances (pesticides, insecticides, diagnostic specimens, live virus materials)
• Miscellaneous dangerous substances and articles, including environmentally hazardous substances.

Dangerous Goods (HAZMAT) may be carried as cargo under TDG/ICAO/IATA regulated items, please contact your local Canadian North Cargo representative

Powder (including baby powder, dry shampoo and powered detergent)

We recommend powder-like substances over 350 mL (12 oz.)  be stored in your checked bags.

This includes baby powder, foot or body powder, baking powder or soda, protein powder, dry shampoo and powder detergent.

Powders in carry-on baggage may require secondary screening, and those that cannot be clearly identified by security officials will not be allowed into the cabin.

Security-type attaché cases

Briefcases, cash boxes and diplomat’s cases with built-in alarm devices that incorporate lithium batteries and/or pyrotechnic materials are forbidden as carry-on baggage.

They will be accepted as checked baggage pending air carrier approval as long they are declared for inspection at airport check-in.

Security type equipment that is defective or that has been damaged is forbidden.

Self-inflating Lifejackets and Safety Vests

A life jacket or safety vest containing up to two small nonflammable gas cartridges (containing no hazardous material other than a Division 2.2) is accepted per passenger in either carry-on or checked baggage.

In addition, two spare cartridges are also permitted. The water capacity of each cylinder must not exceed 50 ml. For carbon dioxide, a gas cylinder with a water capacity of 50 mL is equivalent to a 28 g cartridge.

The personal safety device and spare cartridges must be declared at check-in to receive approval and must be suitably packed to prevent accidental activation.

Sharp Objects

Carry-on or checked?

When going through security, place anything with blades, points or spikes in your checked baggage. All sharp objects in checked baggage must be securely wrapped to prevent screening officers and baggage handlers from being injured.

Please note that concealed knives or blades of any length (e.g. lipstick knives, penknives, credit card knives, switchblade knives, tactical pen, as well as nunchucks or nunchaku sticks) are considered illegal under the Criminal code of Canada and if presented or found at a pre-board screening checkpoint, the protocol requires CATSA to notify the police which in turn may lead to criminal charges being laid.

Some sharp items such as knitting needles, nail clippers, tweezers, small scissors (up to 6 cm/2.4 inches) corkscrews, or cigar cutters without attached blades are generally permitted in your carry-on bag, however since the final decision rests with a security officer, please be aware that these items could be confiscated.

Shaving razors

• Safety razors are permitted in your carry-on only if the blade has been removed and stored in your checked baggage.
• Disposable razors come in two types, the kind that is completely disposable with a handle and all, or the kind where you replace the cartridge only. Both are permissible in carry-on baggage.
• Straight razors are not allowed in carry-on baggage and must be checked.

Smart Bags

Smart bags are suitcases which typically include integrated lithium-ion batteries that power built-in features such as USB charging, GPS tracking or Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity.

You can travel with a smart bag as long as the battery it contains is removable. If the bag needs to be placed in the cargo hold, you must remove the battery and carry it with you.

Smart bags with a non-removable lithium-ion battery are not accepted on Canadian North flights as they pose a fire risk on board the aircraft.