NAV CANADA, which provides air traffic control, airport advisory services, weather briefings and aeronautical information services for more than 18 million sq. km of Canadian domestic and oceanic airspace, has confirmed that it will maintain air traffic control service to Canadian communities, including Fort McMurray AB (pictured), Prince George BC, Regina SK, Saint-Jean QC, Sault Ste. Marie ON, Whitehorse YT and Windsor ON.
In an effort to streamline its operations and ensure its air navigation services align with market demand, NAV CANADA, launched 29 aeronautical studies last Autumn and subsequently has elected to limit changes to services across the country. In addition NAV CANADA has committed that there will no site closures at air traffic control towers or flight service stations across the country, however the company will suspend aeronautical studies currently underway related to remote or northern locations until further notice.
“Stakeholder engagement is at the heart of NAV CANADA’s aeronautical study process. The valuable input we have received indicates that a balanced approach is warranted as the industry navigates the ongoing pandemic. We are proactively taking these steps to maintain a consistent level of service as the aviation industry and our many partners shift their focus to recovery,” said Ray Bohn, President and CEO.
The aeronautical studies, which are still in progress, will consider other alternatives to safely streamline operations, including changes to hours of operation. Aeronautical studies that were related to hours of operation from the outset or that are related to Remote Aerodrome Advisory Services will also continues, except for those pertaining to remote or northern locations.
NAV CANADA’s Aeronautical Studies consider all relevant factors, including traffic volume, mix and distribution throughout the day; weather; airport and airspace configuration; surface activity; and the efficiency requirements of operators using the service. Formal consultation with stakeholders is central to all Aeronautical Studies.
