Virtual queuing programs in Canada’s five largest airports

Copenhagen Optimization, CLEAR launch free virtual queuing programs in Canada’s five largest airports

19th December 2022

(Copenhagen, Denmark) – CLEAR (NYSE: YOU) and Copenhagen Optimization today announced partnerships with five of Canada’s largest airports to launch free virtual queuing programs under the brand name “Express powered by CLEAR.” The programs allow travelers to plan ahead and reserve a dedicated security time slot for their party – giving them a more predictable and seamless travel experience. Programs are now live at Edmonton International Airport (YEG), Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL), Vancouver International Airport (YVR), Calgary International Airport (YYC), and Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ).

“With millions of people expected to take to the skies in the coming weeks, these airports’ decision to launch a co-branded program underscores our collective commitment to creating a more predictable travel experience and leveraging innovation to provide the best experience possible,” said CLEAR CEO Caryn Seidman-Becker. “CLEAR is thrilled to partner with these airports and grow our footprint in Canada.”

“Allowing the passenger to be in control of their journey is the future of air transportation,” said Kasper Hounsgaard, co-CEO of Copenhagen Optimization. “Our virtual queuing solution is a game-changer in the personalized airport experience. We have seen from previous cases how nudging passengers to arrive outside of peak not only will improve the passenger experience – it will also have a significant, positive impact on the airport operation.”

The launch of Copenhagen Optimization and CLEAR’s free virtual queuing program at five of Canada’s largest airports underscores tremendous growth in the companies’ global portfolio of airport partners, which include numerous airports across the United States and Europe. In total, CLEAR and Copenhagen Optimization’s virtual queuing platform has served nearly 2 million passengers since launching in 2021.

What They’re Saying About Express powered by CLEAR

Edmonton International Airport (YEG): “Security screening plays an integral role in keeping our passengers and employees safe. While safety and security are always our top priority, we aim to make the experience as convenient as possible. We look forward to having YEG Express to help minimize wait times and maximize time spent shopping, dining and relaxing before you board your plane.” – Steve Maybee, VP, Operations, Infrastructure and Corporate Communications, YEG

Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL): “Proud of its status as an international airport and major air traffic hub, YUL is constantly innovating by deploying an increasing number of services aimed at enhancing our passengers’ experience at different stages of their journey. With the busy holiday season ahead, we are excited to be making available YUL Express, an online booking platform that provides a schedule for security checkpoints for flights to international and domestic destinations. Initially deployed as a pilot project, this addition will reduce wait times and allow registered passengers to enjoy faster access to airport processes.” – Stéphane Lapierre, Vice President, Airport Operations and Air Services Development, ADM

Vancouver International Airport (YVR): “At YVR, innovation and technology continue to be some of our greatest tools to deliver an exceptional experience for our passengers. We are thrilled to launch YVR Express for travel to the U.S. and within Canada. The advance bookings through YVR Express help create a more balanced flow of passengers through security screening, which reduces wait times for security checkpoints and provides a more predictable experience for both passengers and staff. We look forward to continued work with our airport partners to further enhance the YVR experience.” – Chris Thureau, Director, Facilitation and Passenger Program, Vancouver Airport Authority

Calgary International Airport (YYC): “Our sights are set on growth and YYC Express is one of many ways we are well positioned to make this holiday travel season – and all the other seasons to come – exceptional. YYC led the country last year as the first airport in Canada to pilot the Express program. Since then, our guests have experienced a faster security line by reserving their spot and we thank our airline partners for their continued support of these guest initiatives.” – Chris Miles, Vice President Operations and Infrastructure, The Calgary Airport Authority

Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ): “We’re committed to equipping passengers with digital solutions that make travel more predictable and modernize the experience with government partners like CATSA. As we look toward holiday travel and connecting passengers with loved ones across the globe, YYZ Express is another step towards a fully digital journey for those passengers who want it; to move more seamlessly through the airport.” – Deborah Flint, President and Chief Executive Officer, Greater Toronto Airport Authority

How It Works

• Reserve: To use the free Express powered by CLEAR lanes, just visit the dedicated booking site for your airport where you can enter your flight details, the size of your party, and find a reservation time that works for you.
• Confirm: Once you select your reservation time, finish booking by entering your email, and confirming your details. You’ll receive a confirmation email and QR code.
• Go: When you arrive at airport security, look for signs pointing to the Express powered by CLEAR lane. Scan your QR code with airport staff and enjoy the fast lane right to screening and security.

Although the program varies slightly by airport, generally speaking, reservations can be made online as early as 72 hours in advance of a flight’s scheduled departure. Reservation times are available based on the passenger’s selected flight; slots are available starting at least 60 minutes before domestic flights and at least 75 minutes before international flights.