MISSISSAUGA — An employee of Air Canada has been charged following an investigation into an attempted export of cannabis from Toronto Pearson International Airport.
According to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the incident dates back to Feb. 19, 2026, when officers were called to assist after the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) discovered approximately 66 kilograms of cannabis in two checked bags belonging to two German citizens scheduled to depart on separate commercial flights to Germany.
Each suitcase contained roughly 33 kilograms of cannabis. The passengers, who were not travelling together and did not know each other, denied ownership of the luggage. Both individuals cooperated fully with authorities and were later released without charges.
A subsequent RCMP investigation determined that the suitcases were identical and had not been checked in by the passengers. Investigators allege that luggage tags bearing the travellers’ names had been affixed to the bags by an employee working in the baggage handling area.
On March 12, 2026, members of the RCMP Border Integrity unit arrested and charged Air Canada employee Atasha Weathley, 32, of Mississauga.
The charges include possession for the purpose of export under the Cannabis Act, as well as conspiracy to commit an indictable offence under the Criminal Code.
Weathley was held for bail and later released with conditions. Her next court appearance is scheduled for April 10, 2026, at the courthouse in Brampton.
“This investigation demonstrates the commitment of the RCMP and CBSA to protecting the integrity of Canada’s cross–border air transportation system. Individuals who attempt to exploit their position of trust within the aviation industry to facilitate illegal activity will be held accountable. We will continue to work closely with law enforcement and industry partners to prevent, detect, and disrupt criminal activity at our borders,” said Dale Foote, Superintendent, Officer in Charge of Border Integrity, Federal Policing – Central Region.
