Safety and Security: Enforcement of Pre-Load Air Cargo Targeting Program (PACT) in Canada on 1 April 2025

The enforcement of Canada’s Pre-Load Air Cargo Targeting Program (PACT) regulation will commence on 1 April 2025. This PLACI initiative aims to enhance air cargo security by requiring pre-loading risk assessments for shipments entering Canada. The detailed regulation has been published in the Canada Gazette, Part II.

FIATA emphasises that air cargo industry must ensure compliance with PACT requirements, as freight forwarders, alongside air carriers, play a critical role in cargo documentation and data transmission. Forwarders should work closely with their airline partners to guarantee accurate and timely data submission, avoiding disruptions and potential penalties.

As per PACT regulation, freight forwarders or air carriers who create waybills or operate flights that precede the last point of departure for Canada (e.g., codeshare arrangements) may also participate in PACT voluntarily at the request of an air carrier.

Compliance and Technical Resources

Key compliance requirements are included in the official PACT Technical Implementation Guide (currently version 1.5, dated February 15, 2025), which outlines the necessary data formats and submission processes. To facilitate compliance, freight forwarders and air cargo partners are strongly encouraged to review the guide, which can be accessed here: PACT Technical Implementation Guide

FIATA call all freight forwarders, air carriers, and logistics stakeholders to be aware of these regulation and to ensure compliance ahead of the 1 April 2025 deadline to avoid any potential penalties or operational disruptions. Freight forwarders are particularly encouraged to engage with their airline partners to facilitate smooth implementation of the new requirements.

For more information on Canada’s PACT requirements, please consult the Transport Canada webpage: Transport Canada – PACT Program. Please find previous FIATA communication on PACT requirements here.