Canadian air traffic controllers have spoken out against the air navigation service provider, NAV Canada, after the ANSP announced its intention over recent months to close seven air traffic control towers and reduce the level of service at their respective airports.
NAV Canada has also served the Union notice of their intent to further reduce the air traffic control workforce outside these units.
The Canadian Air Traffic Control Association (CATCA) says that despite chronically understaffed air traffic control units across the country, Canada has enjoyed the safest levels of air travel in the world since NAV Canada’s inception in 1996. CATCA warns that to further reduce staffing levels will not only debilitate the air navigation system’s ability to maintain its previous capacity and safety, but it will also impede Canada’s airlines’ ability to recover moving forward.
CATCA will continue discussions with both stakeholders and the Government in an effort to find a sustainable solution for the continued provision of this essential service. In a statement it argues that “the reduction in services NAV Canada is attempting to introduce within the system is reckless and unacceptable. We remain committed in maintaining the integrity of our profession as well as the trust the public has in the service our Members provide.”
