Nada Semaan has been announced as Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority for a five-year term. (CATSA) is a Crown corporation mandated with protecting people through effective and efficient screening of air travellers and their baggage. CATSA provides a professional, effective, and consistent level of security service across the country.

The appointment, announced by Transport minister was based “open, transparent, and merit-based selection process,” says the government.

The government stated that “Ms. Semaan possesses considerable executive-level experience, is an active member of her community, and brings a wide array of knowledge and expertise to her positions.”

The Minister and the CEO of CATSA are focused on working together on improving service delivery and passenger screening in Canada, and on better accountability and integration with other industry players in the sector.

The introductory meeting between Alghabra and Semaan took place on April 28.

A key task for Semaan will be to oversee a federal budget for 2023 to provide $1.8 billion over five years to CATSA to maintain and increase its level of service, improve screening wait times, and strengthen security measures at airports.