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Vancouver's largest airport ended its security reservation program. Here's what to use instead

The airport has other tools available for a smooth passenger experience.
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Vancouver International Airport (YVR) ended its YVR Express program but its Journeys tool, Mobile Passport Control, and the ArriveCan App remain available in 2024.

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) has ended its passenger security reservation program.

On Sept. 23, Vancouver's largest airport announced it was ending its YVR Express program due to "increased efficiencies at security screening checkpoints" in a statement on its website. The service officially ended on Sept. 24.

The airport added in a statement to V.I.A. that the opening of the new ABC Checkpoint with new Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) screening equipment speeds up the process for domestic travellers.

YVR launched its reservation program in October 2022, allowing passengers headed south of the border to reserve a spot at the security checkpoint ahead of their flight. The feature essentially allowed passengers to "skip the line," reducing wait times. 

In May 2023, the airport expanded the YVR Express Program to include international destinations and cities within Canada. 

The airport added that other passenger experience features, including the Journeys tool and Mobile Passport Control, remain available.  

Other passenger experience tools at YVR

YVR's passenger journey tool allows passengers to get smoothly through the airport with step-by-step instructions. The feature shows travellers important information including their terminal and gate number, as well as what to do before they arrive at the airport, including their online check-in.

The airport's Timeline tool also identifies whether travellers are at risk of missing a flight and instructs them to see one of YVR's Guest Experience representatives who can assist them in getting to their gate. Travellers scan a digital QR code and insert their flight number to get instructions on how to get to their gate on time.

Travellers may also continue to use the pandemic-introduced ArriveCan app, which allows them to save time crossing the border by submitting their customs declaration in advance.

The Mobile Passport Control app allows travellers flying to the U.S. to submit their passport and customs declaration information through a free, secure app on their smartphone before they leave for a trip.


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