Airlines not jumping into luggage e-tags

Electronic bag tags put on luggage at home could help make airport security a faster experience for Canadians, but it isn’t clear when the major Canadian airlines will start taking part in the program.

The Liberal government recently announced a new “e-tag ” program that it says will make airport checkin “more convenient and faster” by allowing travellers to apply their own bag tags on checked luggage before they head to the airport.

As of June 16, airlines can offer two types of e-tag services: a selfprint bag tag printed from a personal device during online checkin at home or in the office, prior to leaving for the airport, placed in a reusable holder and attached to the bag; or an electronic bag tag, in which passengers use a reusable plastic tag with an electronic ink screen (similar to an e-reader) provided by the airline. The tag is connected to the airport via wireless technology and updates its destination information via the airline’s application.

In announcing the changes on Facebook Live, Transport Minister Marc Garneau said the program is designed to help travellers “checkin faster so that they spend less time in line and more time enjoying the travel experience.”

Officials said all airlines can start offering the e-tagging options immediately for all departures from Canadian airports, but three major Canadian airlines — Air Canada, WestJet and Porter — made it clear this could take a while.

“We are looking at it now, but at this point I have nothing definitive to tell you,” said Air Canada’s Peter Fitzpatrick.