Advisory Circular (AC) No. 202-002

Aircraft Registration

Issuing Office: Civil Aviation, Standards Document No.: AC 202-002
File Classification No.: Z 5000-34 Issue No. 01
RDIMS No.: 17828497-V28 Effective Date: 2025-03-20

Table of contents

1.0 Introduction

  1. (1) This Advisory Circular (AC) is provided for information and guidance purposes. It describes an example of an acceptable means, but not the only means, of demonstrating compliance with regulations and standards. This AC on its own does not change, create, amend or permit deviations from regulatory requirements, nor does it establish minimum standards.

1.1 Purpose

  1. (1) The purpose of this AC is to provide guidance regarding the process of registering an aircraft and obtaining a Canadian Certificate of Registration, with related information regarding aircraft import and export.
  2. (2) A companion document, AC 201-002, contains related information regarding aircraft identification and marking.

1.2 Applicability

  1. (1) This AC is applicable to any Canadian individual or entity who is, or wishes to become, the registered owner of an aircraft.
  2. (2) This document applies to Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) personnel, delegates, and the aviation industry.
  3. (3) This AC does not apply to small Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS).

1.3 Description of changes

  1. (1) Not applicable.

2.0 References and requirements

2.1 Reference documents

  1. (1) It is intended that the following reference materials be used in conjunction with this document:
    1. (a) Aeronautics Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. A-2)
    2. (b) Access to Information Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. A-1)
    3. (c) Canada Transportation Act (S.C. 1996, c. 10)
    4. (d) Transportation Appeal Tribunal of Canada Act (S.C. 2001, c. 29)
    5. (e) Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (S.C. 2001, c. 27)
    6. (f) Interpretation Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. I-21)
    7. (g) Privacy Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. P-21)
    8. (h) Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (S.C. 2000, c. 5)
    9. (i) Part II, Subpart 2 of the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) – Aircraft Marking and Registration
    10. (j) Standard 222 of the CARs
    11. (k) AC 201-002 – Aircraft Identification and Marking.
    12. (l) Annex 7 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation – Aircraft Nationality and Registration Marks
    13. (m) Transport Canada form number 26-0522 — Application for Registration of Aircraft
    14. (n) Transport Canada form number 26-0521 — Application for Registration of Ultra-Light or Advanced Ultra-light Aeroplanes
    15. (o) Transport Canada form number 26-0309 — Annex to Application for Registration of a Leased Aircraft
    16. (p) Transport Canada form number 26-0519 — Notification of Transfer of Aircraft Ownership
    17. (q) Transport Canada form number 26-0876 — Certificate of Deregistration

2.2 Cancelled documents

  1. (1) As of the effective date of this document, the following documents are cancelled:
    1. (a) TP11957 Edition 02, 2016-05-25 — Aircraft Registration Procedures Manual
    2. (b) GAPL 1996-02 - Interim Registration Change of Address – Old Registration Certificate
  2. (2) By default, it is understood that the publication of a new issue of a document automatically renders any earlier issues of the same document null and void.

2.3 Definitions and abbreviations

  1. (1) The following definitions are used in this document:
    1. (a) Advanced Ultra-Light Aeroplane (AULA): an aeroplane that has a type design that is in compliance with the standards specified in the manual entitled Design Standards for Advanced Ultra-light Aeroplanes.
    2. (b) Aeronautics Act: an act of Parliament providing the basis for the regulation of aeronautics.
    3. (c) Affidavit: a sworn statement of fact, written and sworn to by the declarant before a person who is authorized to administer an oath and having the same force of effect as if made under oath in a court of law. More correctly termed “Statutory Declaration”.
    4. (d) Aircraft: any machine capable of deriving support in the atmosphere from reactions of the air, including a rocket.
    5. (e) Amateur-built aircraft: means an aircraft, the major portion of which is constructed or assembled individually as a unique project, either from raw materials or from a kit.
    6. (f) Basic Ultra-Light Aeroplane (BULA): a fixed-wing aeroplane having no more than two seats, designed and manufactured to have
      1. (i) a maximum take-off weight not exceeding 544 kg, and
      2. (ii) a stall speed in the landing configuration (Vso) of 39 knots (45 mph) indicated airspeed, or less, at the maximum take-off weight.
    7. (g) Canadian: refer to section 4.0 “The Registered Owner” for details regarding the definitions of Canadian individuals, entities, and government.
    8. (h) Canadian aircraft: an aircraft registered in Canada.
    9. (i) Canadian Aviation Document: any licence, permit, accreditation, certificate or other document issued by the Minister to or with respect to any person or in respect of any aeronautical product, aerodrome, facility or service.
    10. (j) Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs): Regulations Respecting Aviation and Activities Relating to Aeronautics; a compilation of regulatory requirements enabled by the Aeronautics Act.
    11. (k) Certificate of Registration (CofR): a Canadian Aviation Document issued pursuant to CAR Section 202.25 which certifies that an aircraft has been declared not to be registered in any other state, and that identifying details of the aircraft, its owner, and its registration markings have been entered into the Canadian aircraft registry.
    12. (l) Convention, ICAO Convention, the: The Convention on International Civil Aviation signed at Chicago on 7 December 1944, also known as the Chicago Convention, establishing the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
    13. (m) Custody and Control, legal: Physical possession of, and the authority to manage, maintain and operate an aircraft, as established by a document.
    14. (n) Documentary Evidence of Custody and Control (C & C document): The bill of sale, lease, last will and testament or other legal document that establishes the applicant for registration as the aircraft owner. The document pursuant to which a registered owner of an aircraft has legal custody and control of the aircraft. May be in the form of original or copied paper documents as well as electronic, digital files.
    15. (o) Entity: Any business, individual, partnership, joint venture, agency, governmental subdivision, association, firm, corporation, or other person other than a natural person.
    16. (p) Flight Authority: means a certificate of airworthiness, special certificate of airworthiness, or a flight permit issued under Subpart 7 of Part V of the CARs. In respect of aircraft registration, this does not include a validation of a foreign flight authority.
    17. (q) Fireproof: capable of withstanding heat as well or better than steel.
    18. (r) Individual: A natural person.
    19. (s) In writing: text-based communication including traditional paper documents and any electronic format, such as email, which is from an identifiable author, and which may be stored and retrieved for later reading.
    20. (t) Issued, in regard to a document means officially provided in a physical or electronic form.
    21. (u) Lessee: a person who leases or rents an aircraft from the lessor under the terms of a lease agreement.
    22. (v) Lessor: the title holder (owner) of an aircraft that is leased or rented to the lessee under the terms of a lease agreement.
    23. (w) Manufacturer: the holder of a type certificate for an aeronautical product at its time of manufacture, or where no type certificate has been issued by the Minister, the maker of the aeronautical product.
    24. (x) Model: Aircraft model: A distinct sub-set or variant of an aircraft type. (e.g.: Cessna 172M; Type – Cessna 172, Model = 172M.)
    25. (y) Owner: a person who has legal custody and control of the aircraft. This person may or may not be the aircraft’s title holder (the person who owns the aircraft as property). The title holder may or may not be the aircraft’s Registered Owner.
    26. (z) Permanent Resident: means a person who has acquired permanent resident of Canada status and has not subsequently lost that status.
    27. (aa) Person: includes a corporation. Whenever the CARs refer to a person, the meaning applies to both individuals and entities.
    28. (bb) Registered: in respect of a Canadian aircraft, means:
      1. (i) details of the aircraft’s identification, marking, and the owner have been entered in the Canadian Civil Aircraft Register, and
      2. (ii) a Certificate of Registration has been issued.
    29. (cc) Registered Owner: in respect of an aircraft, means the person to whom a certificate of registration for the aircraft has been issued by the Minister under Part I or in respect of whom the aircraft has been registered by the Minister under that Part;
    30. (dd) Statutory Declaration: see “Affidavit”.
    31. (ee) Title, Title holder: a person who, whether or not they have physical custody of an aircraft, holds legally documented rights to it as their possession.
    32. (ff) Ultra-light aeroplane: means an advanced ultra-light aeroplane (AULA) or a basic ultra-light aeroplane (BULA).
  2. (2) The following abbreviations are used in this document:
    1. (a) AC: Advisory Circular
    2. (b) ADS-B: Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast
    3. (c) AULA: Advanced Ultra-Light Aeroplane
    4. (d) BULA: Basic Ultra-Light Aeroplane
    5. (e) CAR or CARs: Canadian Aviation Regulation(s)
    6. (f) CASI-A: Civil Aviation Safety Inspector - Airworthiness
    7. (g) CCAR: Canadian Civil Aircraft Register
    8. (h) CCARCS-E: Canadian Civil Aircraft Register Computer System – Evolution
    9. (i) CofR: Certificate of Registration
    10. (j) ICAO: International Civil Aviation Organization
    11. (k) IDERA: Irrevocable De-registration and Export Request Authorisation
    12. (l) MD-RA: Minister’s Delegate – Recreational Aviation
    13. (m) MTOW: Maximum Takeoff Weight
    14. (n) RPAS: Remotely Piloted Aircraft System
    15. (o) TCCA: Transport Canada Civil Aviation.

3.0 Background

  1. (1) Under the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs), before an aircraft may be operated in Canada it must be registered.
  2. (2) Aircraft Registration is the process of formally recording that a particular marked and identified aircraft is in the legal custody and control of a person or entity, who by the process of registration becomes a registered owner and the holder of a Certificate of Registration.
  3. (3) Before it is operated, an aircraft and its owner must be identified. Aircraft must display unique identification information on an identification plate, display registration marks, and be registered to the person or persons who are responsible for its operation and maintenance. For information regarding aircraft identification plates and aircraft registration marks, refer to AC 201-002 – Aircraft Identification and Marking.
  4. (4) The most common and familiar certificate of registration is referred to in regulation as a Continuing Certificate of Registration. A continuing certificate of registration is valid until it is cancelled, deemed cancelled, or surrendered.
  5. (5) A continuing certificate of registration is produced in an internationally recognized, ICAO-standard format.
  6. (6) A Certificate of Registration is not a certificate of title – it does not certify that the aircraft is the property of the registered owner. In Canada, aircraft are registered to persons who have legal custody and control of an aircraft, regardless of who holds financial title to the aircraft. The person who has custody and control of an aircraft is not necessarily the same person who holds legal title to the aircraft.
  7. (7) The Canadian Civil Aircraft Register is a publicly viewable record of each Canadian aircraft for which a continuing certificate of registration has been issued; the name and address of each registered owner, the registration mark and other details of the aircraft.

3.1 Steps to obtain a Canadian Certificate of Registration

  1. (1) The aircraft must be eligible for registration. Refer to Section 3.3 and 3.4 below.
  2. (2) The aircraft must be properly identified with an aircraft ID plate that complies with Subpart 201 of the CARs. TCCA must have a clear photograph of the aircraft ID plate. Refer to AC 201-002 – Aircraft Identification and Marking for further details.
  3. (3) The aircraft must display Canadian registration marks. If the aircraft has already been marked and registered in Canada, it will keep its existing marks. For details on obtaining and displaying new Canadian registration marks, refer to AC 201-002 – Aircraft Identification and Marking.
  4. (4) If the aircraft is being imported, TCCA must have received a notification of de-registration or non-registration from the foreign Civil Aviation Authority. Refer to AC 201-002 – Aircraft Identification and Marking.
  5. (5) Each applicant must provide satisfactory evidence that they are Canadian. Individuals must be at least 16. Refer to Section 4.0 – The Registered Owner. Do not send original documents to Transport Canada.
  6. (6) Each applicant must provide a copy of the legal document establishing them as the aircraft owner. Refer to Section 5.0 – Documentary Evidence of Legal Custody and Control.
    Do not send original documents to Transport Canada.
  7. (7) The applicant may apply for registration through the Transport Canada Civil Aviation website or submit an application form. Refer to Section 7.1 – Application Forms.
  8. (8) The fee for issuance of an aircraft certificate of registration should be paid, by applying for registration through the Transport Canada Civil Aviation website or by using the Online Payment System at https://www.canada.ca/payments-air. The payment confirmation number or a copy of the TCCA receipt should be sent with the application or noted on the application form.
  9. (9) The emergency search and rescue information should be updated. Refer to section 7.4 – Canadian Beacon Registry.

3.2 Aircraft not required to be registered

  1. (1) The following aircraft are not required to be registered under the CARs:
    1. (a) Military aircraft of the Canadian Armed Forces,
    2. (b) rockets,
    3. (c) hovercraft,
    4. (d) wing-in-ground-effect machines,
    5. (e) hang gliders,
    6. (f) parachutes (except for powered parachutes),
    7. (g) small unoccupied balloons,
    8. (h) remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) that weigh less than 250 g, and
    9. (i) RPAS that are operated indoors, underground, or that are physically tethered.
  2. (2) RPAS with a maximum take-off weight between 250 g and 25 kg (Small RPAS) are required by CAR Part IX to be registered under the Transport Canada Drone Management Portal: https://tc.canada.ca/en/aviation/drone-safety/drone-management-portal.
  3. (3) Large RPAS (maximum take-off weight greater than 25 kg) operate under a Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC), and as of the issue date of this Advisory circular are not required to be registered.

3.3 Aircraft eligibility for registration

  1. (1) Things that are not aircraft cannot be registered as aircraft. In order to show that an aircraft is eligible for registration, the aircraft must be eligible for at least one of the classifications of flight authority according to CAR 507 or meet the definition of an Ultra-light Aeroplane. This flight authority may be a:
    1. (a) Certificate of Airworthiness,
    2. (b) Special Certificate of Airworthiness, or
    3. (c) Flight Permit.
  2. (2) For further information concerning Ultra-light Aeroplanes, refer to Section 10.0 – Ultra-light Aeroplanes.
  3. (3) Since Transport Canada Civil Aviation may issue a temporary Flight Permit – Specific Purpose to any aircraft that is capable of safe flight, any aircraft that may be capable of a safe flight is eligible for registration.
  4. (4) The registration process is not a determination of airworthiness. Normally, an aircraft must be registered before it may be issued a flight authority under Subpart 507 of the CARs, but issuance of a flight authority is not guaranteed by registration.
  5. (5) Unless the aircraft is a Type Certified aircraft that is being manufactured by a known manufacturer, TCCA will require evidence that it is eligible for a flight authority before it is first registered in Canada.
  6. (6) Eligibility for a flight authority, for the purpose of issuance of a Certificate of Registration can be shown by providing:
    1. (a) A letter from a Minister’s Delegate with the authority to issue a flight authority advising that the aircraft may be eligible for a flight authority;
    2. (b) A letter from a Civil Aviation Safety Inspector – Airworthiness (CASI-A) advising that the aircraft may be eligible for a flight authority; or
    3. (c) An amateur-built aircraft that has passed an inspection during construction of enclosed areas (a “pre-cover inspection”) may be deemed eligible for a flight authority for the purpose of registration, and thus does not need to be completed before it is registered. Minister’s Delegate – Recreational Aviation (MD-RA) form C16 is used for this purpose.
  7. (7) An aircraft that has previously been removed from the Canadian Registry or a foreign registry as destroyed or permanently removed from service might not be eligible for a flight authority and therefore might not be eligible for a Certificate of Registration.
  8. (8) Some aircraft serial numbers are listed as destroyed or otherwise ineligible on the aircraft’s Type Certificate Data Sheet (TCDS). If complete, these aircraft may be registered but cannot be issued a Certificate of Airworthiness.
  9. (9) An aircraft that exists only as a fuselage, with or without an identification plate, or as a collection of parts may not realistically be eligible for a flight authority, and is thus ineligible for a CofR.

3.4 Owner’s requirement to register an aircraft in Canada

  1. (1) The regulations do not require a person who gains custody and control of an aircraft to apply for registration if they will not be operating the aircraft, however they still have responsibilities under the CARs, despite not being the registered owner.
  2. Note: Canadian aircraft registration is not connected to title rights under any property law. For further information regarding custody and control, refer to section 5.0 – Documentary Evidence of Legal Custody and Control.
  3. (2) If a Canadian has custody and control of a foreign-registered aircraft, they must register it in Canada before operating it in Canada. CAR 202.42 provides an 89 day grace period to this rule, as described below.
  4. (3) An individual who holds Canadian citizenship or has permanent resident status in Canada is a Canadian, regardless of any other citizenship they may hold. Individuals may not operate a foreign-registered aircraft in Canada beyond the 89 day limit by operating under their other citizenship.
  5. (4) A Canadian individual or entity may operate a foreign-registered aircraft that has been in Canada for no more than 89 days in the preceding twelve-month period. The aircraft must actually be registered in the foreign country.
  6. (5) The holder of an Air Operator Certificate may be authorized under CAR Subpart 203 to lease and operate a particular foreign-registered aircraft. The aircraft must be operated in accordance with the terms of the lease authorization.
  7. (6) A non-Canadian individual or a foreign state may operate a foreign-registered aircraft in Canada for any length of time if the aircraft is registered in their own nation.
  8. (7) A Non-Canadian entity may operate a foreign-registered aircraft in Canada for any length of time:
    1. (a) If it is operating in accordance with a Canadian air operator certificate, or
    2. (b) If it would not require a Private Operator Registration Document (PORD) under CAR 604 if the aircraft were registered in Canada. (Refer to CAR 604.03)

4.0 The registered owner

4.1 General

  1. (1) Canadian aircraft may be registered to Canadian individuals (natural persons), Canadian entities (corporations etc.), or to governments in Canada.
  2. (2) Every applicant for registration must provide a copy of an identification document showing that they are qualified to be a registered owner of a Canadian aircraft.
  3. (3) Do not send original documents to Transport Canada.

4.2 Canadian individuals

  1. (1) Any Canadian individual who is at least 16 years old can be the registered owner of a Canadian aircraft.
  2. (2) A Canadian individual may be a Canadian citizen, or a permanent resident as defined in subsection 2(1) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
  3. (3) An individual applicant must provide a copy of an identity document that shows they meet the age and citizenship requirements.
  4. (4) It is not necessary to provide a copy of the entire document, only the page of the document or card that displays the applicant’s name, citizenship status, and age or date of birth.
  5. (5) The identity information on the identification document must match the name provided on the application form. The name as it appears on the identity document will be used to register the aircraft.
  6. (6) The identity document must be issued by a Canadian federal, provincial, or territorial government. Foreign-issued documents such as NEXUS cards are not acceptable.
  7. (7) The identity document must identify the applicant as a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Documents that could be issued to individuals who are not citizens or permanent residents, such as provincial driver’s licenses, are not acceptable.
  8. (8) The identity document may be:
    1. (a) a valid Canadian passport,
    2. (b) a Canadian citizenship certificate,
    3. (c) a Canadian citizenship card
    4. (d) a valid Canadian permanent resident card, or
    5. (e) If an applicant who is a permanent resident has not yet obtained a Canadian permanent resident card:
      1. (i) confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688) form which has been authenticated by a Border Services Officer at a Port of Entry
      2. (ii) Record of Landing (IMM 1000)
    6. (f) a valid TCCA-issued Aviation Document Booklet that shows the applicant is a citizen of Canada,
    7. (g) a birth certificate from a Canadian province or territory,
    8. (h) a Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) card,
    9. (i) a British certificate of naturalization issued before January 1, 1947,
    10. (j) a Canadian registration of birth abroad certificate issued between January 1, 1947 and February 14, 1977,
    11. (k) a Canadian certificate of retention issued between January 1, 1947 and February 14, 1977.
  9. (9) Original documents should not be sent to TCCA. There is no requirement for the submitted copy of the identity document to be notarized or certified.
  10. (10) Applicants must be aware that under the Aeronautics Act, submission of a false document constitutes an indictable offence, or an offence punishable on summary conviction.

4.3 Gender of individuals

  1. (1) TCCA does not request, record, or disclose information regarding the gender of applicants for aircraft registration or of registered owners.

4.4 Canadian entities

  1. (1) An aircraft may be registered to any corporation or any legal entity that is incorporated or formed under the laws of Canada or a Province or Territory.
  2. (2) The entity will be identified by the full legal name of the entity as it was incorporated or formed, including any corporate number or trade name.
  3. (3) Entities falling below minimum Canadian fraction-of-ownership requirements may still be registered owners of Canadian aircraft, however restrictions apply. Refer to sections 4.5 – Foreign-owned Canadian Entities and 7.2 – Completing the Application for Registration – Notes.
  4. (4) If a Canadian entity is wound up, dissolved, or amalgamated with another entity their Certificates of Registration are automatically cancelled, in accordance with paragraph 202.57(1)(b) of the CARs.
  5. (5) Application for registration must be made by an authorized representative of the entity. The application must include a copy of documentary evidence that establishes the authority of the representative, such as a letter from a principal of the entity.
  6. (6) On application to register an aircraft, an entity must provide documentary evidence that it exists and that it is Canadian. Examples of acceptable means of identifying a Canadian entity include:
    1. (a) Charter documents, such as certificates of incorporation, amendment or amalgamation from Corporations Canada,
    2. (b) a Certificate of compliance or Certificate of existence from Corporations Canada,
    3. (c) a provincial Certificate of Conformity, Certificate of Status, or Certificat d’attestation (Certificate of Attestation),
    4. (d) a written formal partnership or co-operative agreement.

4.5 Foreign-owned Canadian entities

  1. (1) A Canadian entity may have non-Canadian owners. If a Canadian entity has more than a defined level of foreign ownership, it is a foreign-owned Canadian entity, termed in the CARs as “An entity that is not Canadian but is incorporated or formed under the laws of Canada or a province”.
  2. (2) For entities partly owned by non-Canadians that intend to operate a commercial air service, there are two definitions of Canadian applicable to aircraft registration. The definition found in CAR 101.01 is specific to the operation of certain commercial air services. For every other case, the applicable definition is found in Section 55 of the Canada Transportation Act.
  3. (3) It is the sole responsibility of the person registering an aircraft to consult with TCCA to the extent necessary to ensure that they and their aircraft may be eligible for operation in the intended role.
  4. (4) Canadian entities that exceed the limit of foreign ownership specified in the applicable definition of a Canadian entity in section 4.4 above may be the registered owners of private Canadian aircraft, but to avoid cancellation of their Certificate of Registration, they:
    1. (a) must ensure that in each six-month period, at least 60 per cent of the accumulated flight time is within Canada, and
    2. (b) must meet the record-keeping and semi-annual flight time reporting requirements detailed in Standard 222.15.

4.6 A Government in Canada

  1. (1) An aircraft may be registered to a government or government agency in Canada, including:
    1. (a) any Federal, Provincial, Territorial government, or to a department within that government,
    2. (b) any incorporated Municipal government, and
    3. (c) any police force.

5.0 Documentary evidence of legal custody and control

5.1 Title vs. legal custody and control

  1. (1) There are important differences between the seemingly similar terms “Title holder”, “owner”, and “registered owner”:
    1. (a) Title holder: a person who, whether or not they have physical custody of an aircraft, holds legally documented rights to it as their possession and may claim it as their personal property under the laws applicable in their province or territory, or under an equivalent foreign law. Canadian private property law is governed by two coexisting systems: the civil code of Quebec and the common law in the other provinces and territories.
    2. (b) Owner: a person who, whether or not the aircraft is registered to them, has legal custody and control of the aircraft.
    3. (c) Registered owner: a person who has legal custody and control of the aircraft as substantiated by a document and to whom the aircraft is registered, or a person who is the holder of a valid Certificate of Registration.
  2. (2) A person may have legal custody and control of an aircraft but not be the aircraft’s title holder.
  3. (3) A registered aircraft owner may be a different person than the aircraft’s title holder.
  4. (4) A Canadian Certificate of Registration is not a Certificate of Title.
  5. (5) A Canadian aircraft is registered to a person who provides reasonable documentary evidence that they have possession of the aircraft (legal custody), and the use of the aircraft (control).
  6. (6) Registration of an aircraft, and the issuance or cancellation of a Certificate of Registration does not affect title ownership.
  7. (7) TCCA will not arbitrate or mediate a dispute over aircraft title ownership. When there is disagreement between persons claiming the title ownership of an aircraft, the parties involved should settle the dispute themselves or through a court of law.
  8. (8) TCCA does not record liens, mortgages, or other encumbrances against aircraft title.
  9. (9) TCCA does not perform title searches. Title search services are available through many private entities.

5.2 Custody and control document (“C & C” document)

  1. (1) Before a Certificate of Registration can be issued, the applicant must provide evidence that they have legal custody and control of the aircraft. Various documents can be used to meet this requirement.
  2. (2) The submitted documentary evidence of Custody and Control is the document pursuant to which a registered owner of an aircraft has legal custody and control of the aircraft. This document is commonly known as a C & C document. If the C & C document ceases to be in effect, the Certificate of Registration is cancelled.
  3. (3) A C & C document is most commonly a bill of sale, lease, last will and testament or other legal document that establishes the applicant for registration as the aircraft owner (and not necessarily the aircraft title holder). In some situations, a C & C document may be in another form, such as an invoice, sales receipt, agreement to trade, letter of gift, etc.
  4. (4) Unless evidence to the contrary is received, TCCA will accept that a submitted C & C document is truthful and valid for the intended purpose.
  5. (5) If two applicants present conflicting claims of legal custody and control, TCCA will not necessarily accept either. TCCA will not intervene in, adjudicate, mediate, or participate in title or legal custody disputes. When there is disagreement between persons claiming title or custody and control and the right to be registered owner, the parties involved should settle the dispute themselves or through a court of law. TCCA may refuse to register the aircraft until the dispute has been settled.
  6. (6) If TCCA receives an application for registration but a previous registered owner has not notified TCCA of the change of custody and control, TCCA may require an explanation from the applicant as to why the previous registered owner is unable to provide notification before the C & C document is considered valid.
  7. (7) Copies of C & C documents are stored in TCCA’s electronic archives and are protected from disclosure to unauthorized persons or agencies, subject to the provisions of the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act.
  8. (8) If there was misrepresentation or fraudulent documentation in the application for registration of a Canadian aircraft, the Certificate of Registration is cancelled.
  9. (9) It is an offence under 7.3(1) of the Aeronautics Act to knowingly make any false representation for the purpose of obtaining a Certificate of Registration.
  10. (10) If the registration officer suspects that the C & C document is incorrect or dishonest, they may:
    1. (a) Contact the previous registered owner to confirm that they are aware of the transfer of Custody and Control.
    2. (b) Contact TCCA enforcement if there are grounds to believe the application is being made under false pretense.

5.3 The custody and control (C & C) document must:

  1. (1) Clearly identify the aircraft, ideally by the name of the manufacturer as it appears on the aircraft ID plate, the manufacturer’s model designation, the aircraft’s serial number, and its registration mark, if any.
  2. (2) Contain a statement indicating that the custody and control of the aircraft is being transferred (e.g.: “sold to”, “traded for”, etc.).
  3. (3) Identify the applicant as the person having or gaining legal custody and control.
  4. (4) Unless it is a sales invoice, receipt, or other document that is not normally signed, it should be signed by the person transferring Custody and Control.
  5. (5) Indicate the date of transfer of legal custody and control.
  6. (6) Be in English or French, or be accompanied by a translation, and
  7. (7) Be legible.

5.4 Optional information on C & C document:

  1. (1) May or may not show a continuous chain of ownership to previous registered owner(s).
    1. (a) Since registered owners are often not title holders, a Custody and Control (C & C) document may record transfer of title from a person who is not a previous registered owner.
    2. (b) The (C & C) document may be signed by an agent for the vendor, a power of attorney or other third party.
  2. (2) It is useful but not essential for the document to state the aircraft marks.
  3. (3) May or may not clearly identify the person relinquishing Custody and Control.
  4. (4) May or may not be for a complete, flyable aircraft. It is acceptable for the C & C document to be for a hull or fuselage or a balloon envelope or an amateur built kit. Refer to section 3.3 – Aircraft Eligibility for Registration.
  5. (5) May or may not contain details of the amount paid.
  6. (6) May or may not be in a standard template format. (For convenience, an optional Bill of Sale template is provided in Appendix A)
  7. (7) An escrow condition that depends on the issue of a Certificate of Registration to the new owner is acceptable, if accompanied by a dated bill of sale.

5.5 The C & C document should not:

  1. (1) Be dated in the future.
  2. (2) Contain language that makes custody and control conditional, unless other documents are attached that remove all conditions.
  3. (3) Contain language that releases the applicant from their responsibility for the aircraft.

5.6 Bill of sale

  1. (1) For convenience, a suggested but non-mandatory “Bill of Sale” template is provided in Appendix A.
  2. (2) A bill of sale that uses a template intended for a vehicle, vessel or other property is acceptable if it meets the requirements detailed above.
  3. (3) A bill of sale should be signed, either traditionally or digitally, by the person selling the aircraft, who may or may not be the previous registered owner.
  4. (4) A bill of sale does not need to be to be notarized or witnessed.
  5. (5) A bill of sale does not need to show ‘chain of ownership’ to previous registered owner or previous title holder.
  6. (6) If an aircraft is being sold by a group of co-owners, all sellers should sign the bill of sale. If any of the sellers are unable or unwilling to sign, it is acceptable to attach a declaration signed by all other owners that explains why a missing signature is unavailable.

5.7 Court orders, bankruptcy

  1. (1) A court may make an order regarding the seizure or sale of an aircraft under a provincial storage and liens act, the federal Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act or similar legislation.
  2. (2) Custody and Control may be assigned to the applicant, or to an agent or trustee who may sell the aircraft.
  3. (3) Unless presented with evidence to the contrary, TCCA will accept that a Court Order, a sheriff’s bill of sale or similar is valid for demonstrating legal custody and control, provided the applicant is named as the person receiving custody and control.

5.8 Last will and testament

  1. (1) Since a Last Will and Testament may contain sensitive and confidential information, please contact the nearest TCCA regional office to arrange for secure delivery. Do not send original documents to Transport Canada.
  2. (2) For the purposes of aircraft registration, a copy of a will does not need to be notarized but should be accompanied by a copy of the death certificate.
  3. (3) It is not necessary for a will to identify the aircraft by manufacturer, model, and serial number, provided that the aircraft is somehow clearly identified.
  4. (4) The executor of the estate should notify TCCA of the death of a registered owner. The Certificate of Registration is no longer valid and is automatically cancelled upon the death of any registered owner.
  5. (5) The aircraft may be registered to the executor, or to the named beneficiary, if they wish to operate the aircraft.
  6. (6) Since aircraft registration does not confer or depend on title, it is not necessary for the will to have completed the probate process.
  7. (7) If the executor or named beneficiary chooses not to register the aircraft, they may transfer legal custody and control to another person by a bill of sale, lease, or other arrangement.
  8. (8) If the executor(s) chose to sell the aircraft, each executor should sign the Bill of Sale.

5.9 Statement of construction

  1. (1) It is possible for an applicant to build a Basic Ultra-Light Aeroplane or Amateur-Built aircraft without purchasing a kit. Applicants who construct an aircraft that was not purchased as a kit will not have a document that shows ownership being transferred to them. In these cases, the applicant may make a Statement of Construction as evidence of legal custody and control. The statement should:
    1. (a) be dated,
    2. (b) identify the aircraft by make, model and serial number,
    3. (c) contain a declaration that the applicant(s) have built the aircraft from plans, raw materials, or similar wording and,
    4. (d) contain a declaration that the applicant has custody and control of the aircraft.

5.10 Trust agreement

  1. (1) A copy of a trust agreement may be used as documentary evidence of legal custody and control.
  2. (2) The person with custody and control of the aircraft by virtue of the trust – the beneficiary - must be the applicant for registration. The settlor or trustor cannot make application on the trustee’s behalf. The applicant should provide copies of documentation that establishes that:
    1. (a) the trust is validly constituted in accordance with the applicable law(s) of a Canadian province or territory (e.g. a legal opinion, certification, etc. from a lawyer);
    2. (b) the beneficiary is Canadian as set out in section 55 of the Canada Transportation Act; and
    3. (c) the beneficiar(ies) has (have) legal custody and control of the aircraft.
  3. (3) The person to whom the aircraft will be registered must meet the same qualifications as any other applicant. The aircraft will be registered to that person only if they provide reasonable documentary evidence that they have legal custody and control of the aircraft and will be the person responsible for the operation and maintenance of the aircraft.
  4. (4) The trust agreement may specify a future date for the transfer of the aircraft to the beneficiary or contain terms under which the trust would be dissolved. When the trust agreement ceases to be in effect, the certificate of registration of the aircraft is cancelled unless the registered owner retains legal custody and control of the aircraft and within seven days notifies TCCA that the document is no longer in effect, specifying the day on which it ceased to be in effect, and provides a copy of the new C & C document.
  5. (5) TCCA will not register an aircraft to one person in trust for another.
  6. (6) TCCA will only evaluate a trust agreement as to whether it provides reasonable documentary evidence that an applicant for registration has custody and control of the aircraft for the purpose of issue of a Certificate of Registration.

5.11 Affidavit (Statutory declaration)

  1. (1) The term Affidavit is often used to mean Statutory Declaration.
  2. (2) An applicant may swear an Affidavit as an alternative means of showing legal custody and control.
  3. (3) An affidavit attesting to legal custody and control of an aircraft should clearly identify the aircraft by manufacturer name, model designation, serial number and registration markings if any, and give a concise account in the applicant’s own words of the circumstances whereby they gained custody and control of the aircraft.
  4. (4) The affidavit should be written in the presence of a commissioner for oaths, justice of the peace, notary public or another person legally entitled to sign such documents in Canada, and should include the following, or a similarly worded, statement:

I, ________________, solemnly declare that (state the fact or facts declared to), and I make this solemn declaration conscientiously believing it to be true, and knowing that it is of the same force and effect as if made under oath.

Declared before me ________________at ______________ this ____day of_____ 20__

  1. (5) A statutory declaration has the same force of effect as if made under oath in a court of law.
  2. (6) Where there is misrepresentation or fraudulent documentation in the application for registration of a Canadian aircraft, the Certificate of Registration is automatically cancelled.

5.12 Lease

    1. (a) Lessor: the title holder (owner) of an aircraft that is leased or rented to the lessee under the terms of a lease agreement. The lessor of an aircraft may be non-Canadian.
    2. (b) Lessee: a person who leases an aircraft from the lessor under the terms of a lease agreement.
  2. (1) This AC is only relevant to lease agreements submitted in support of an application for aircraft registration under CAR Subpart 202. The lease is the document that establishes the lessee as the person with custody and control for the purpose of becoming the registered owner. The lessee becomes the registered owner of the aircraft during the period of time stated in the lease.
  3. (2) CAR - Subpart 203– Operation of a Leased Aircraft by a Non-Registered Owner – and its associated Standard 223 do not involve a change in aircraft registration and are not relevant to this AC. An authorization under CAR Subpart 203 allows certain entities to temporarily transfer custody and control of aircraft without affecting the aircraft registration status, during the period of a lease. Authorization of these leasing operations is only granted to certified air operators, including certified flight training units and holders of Private Operator Registration Documents.
  4. (3) TCCA will not assume responsibility for enforcing the terms of a lease or a sub-lease.
  5. (4) Any lease or sub-lease agreement will be evaluated strictly as a custody and control document.
  6. (5) When a lease is submitted as a C & C document, the lease will be evaluated using Standard 222.16(2) as a checklist of information that is required on a lease to establish an applicant for registration as aircraft owner.
  7. (6) A checklist of the required lease information is contained in Form 26-0309, available at https://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Corp-Serv-Gen/5/forms-formulaires/searchrs.aspx?formnumber=26-0309. This form may be attached to a lease agreement to identify the section that fulfills each requirement.

5.13 Expired or cancelled lease

  1. (1) The expiry date of a lease is recorded in the aircraft registration system. The certificate of registration will be cancelled automatically 7 days after the lease expiry date recorded unless TCCA receives a copy of a new lease with a later expiry date (or a replacement C & C document).
  2. (2) The registered owner will not be informed of the automatic cancellation of the Certificate of Registration. It is the responsibility of the lessee (the registered owner) to monitor the status of their lease and provide a new lease to TCCA if required.
  3. (3) In some lease agreements, the lessee or lessor may choose to cancel the lease before the expiry date. TCCA must be notified of the early cancellation of a lease.

5.14 Lease amendment or replacement

  1. (1) In certain cases, a lease may be amended or replaced with no impact on the aircraft’s registration status; the validity of the existing Certificate of Registration is not affected provided that the Minister is informed of the change within 7 days.
  2. (2) When title rights to an aircraft are transferred from one lessor to another and there is no change in registered owner, it is the responsibility of the lessee (the registered owner) to provide a copy of the new lease to TCCA within seven days of the completion of the transfer.
  3. (3) If the registered owner buys the aircraft from the lessor, they must provide a copy of the bill of sale to TCCA within seven days. There is no change to the aircraft registration. An application for registration is not required.

6.0 Import

6.1 General

  1. (1) “Import” under the CARs means entry onto the Canadian register of an aircraft that was previously registered in another state, or newly manufactured in another state.
  2. (2) No authorization from TCCA is required to physically import an aircraft, as a machine or as property, into Canada.
  3. (3) Any complete or incomplete aircraft may be physically brought into Canada, regardless of type or condition.
  4. (4) It is the responsibility of the importer to review and comply with other rules applicable to importation of goods, including those of the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).
  5. (5) To be registered as a Canadian aircraft, an aircraft must be reasonably likely to qualify (be eligible) for a flight authority under Subpart 507 of the CARs, unless it is an Ultra-light Aeroplane.
  6. (6) It is the sole responsibility of the person importing an aircraft to consult with TCCA to the extent necessary to ensure that it may be eligible for a flight authority which will allow operation in its intended role. For instance, an aircraft may only be eligible for a Special Certificate of Airworthiness or a Flight Permit and would not be eligible for operation in flight training or in an air transport service.
  7. (7) A Certificate of Airworthiness pursuant to CAR 507.02 is required for aircraft operated in CAR Part IV Flight Training Unit operations and most Part VII commercial air service operations.
  8. (8) An aircraft which was removed from a foreign registry as destroyed may not be eligible for a flight authority, and thus ineligible for a CofR at the time of physical importation.

6.2 Notification of de-registration or non-registration

  1. (1) An aircraft may not be registered in more than one country at the same time. Before an imported aircraft may be registered in Canada, a notification or certificate of de-registration from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of the exporting country must be received by TCCA. If the aircraft has never been registered in the exporting country, a notification of non-registration may be sent.
  2. (2) It is the responsibility of the person importing the aircraft to request that the foreign exporter contact their Civil Aviation Authority to request that official notification be sent to TCCA. (Contact email AirRegFax@tc.gc.ca)
  3. (3) The official notification should clearly identify the aircraft by manufacturer, model and serial number, and state that the aircraft has been removed from, or was never entered onto, the foreign register.
  4. (4) If an imported aircraft was in military use immediately prior to export, a notification of de-registration from the foreign military is acceptable.
  5. (5) The official notification does not need to state what foreign marks were displayed.
  6. (6) The official notification does not need to contain financial information.
  7. (7) If the official notification is not in English or French, then processing may be delayed.
  8. (8) When an official notification has been received by Transport Canada Civil Aviation, a record containing preliminary information for the aircraft will be created in the registry computer system. The notification will be saved in the TCCA database and referenced in the aircraft file.
  9. (9) Official notifications do not expire, however if an application for registration is not made within 90 days the applicant may be asked to explain where the aircraft has been since its export.
  10. (10) Occasionally, an importer may find it difficult to obtain an official notification of de-registration from a foreign CAA. In these cases, if presented with evidence that the applicant has exhausted all avenues, TCCA in Ottawa may agree to contact the foreign CAA directly to ensure that the regulations of the foreign CAA have been complied with, and to request notification. Requests for assistance in obtaining official notifications may be sent to AirRegFax@tc.gc.ca.

7.0 Registration

7.1 Application forms

  1. (1) The applicant may apply for registration through the Transport Canada website or submit an application form.
  2. (2) There are three forms applicable to the registration process:
    1. (a) 26-0522 Application for Registration of Aircraft;
    2. (b) 26-0521 Application for Registration of Ultra-light or Advanced Ultra-light Aeroplanes (Refer to section 10.0 – Ultra-Light Aeroplanes);
    3. (c) 26-0309 Annex to Application for Registration of a Leased Aircraft.
  3. (3) Electronic version of the application forms are available on the TCCA website: https://tc.canada.ca/en/aviation/registering-leasing-aircraft/aircraft-registration-leasing-forms.
  4. (4) These forms may be submitted by email. When e-mailing an application for a new or imported aircraft, the subject line of the e-mail should clearly state NEW or IMPORT. When e-mailing an application for a transfer of custody and control of a Canadian registered aircraft, the subject line of the e-mail should clearly state TRANSFER OF CUSTODY AND CONTROL.
  5. (5) Paper application forms may be found in the documentation packages that accompanied Certificates of Registration issued before 2021. Use of these older forms is not recommended as they are missing some current requirements and may cause delays in the application process. In particular, documents proving age and Canadian citizenship or permanent residence are now required. It is strongly recommended to use the Transport Canada Civil Aviation website or the application form mentioned above.
  6. (6) The fee for issuance of an aircraft certificate of registration must be paid,
    1. (a) by applying for registration through the Transport Canada Civil Aviation website or or
    2. (b) by using the Online Payment System at https://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Comm/5/OPS. The payment confirmation number or a copy of the TCCA receipt should be sent with the application or noted on the application form.

7.2 Completing the application for registration – Notes:

  1. (1) Aircraft Model Variants, Marketing Names and Common Names
    1. (a) Many aircraft models are referred to by popular names that are different from the model designation on the aircraft ID plate. This is often done for marketing reasons to distinguish variant options between aircraft of the same basic model, or for historical reasons as the manufacturer of a particular type of aircraft changes.
    2. (b) The aircraft will be registered using the model designation that appears on the aircraft ID plate. The ID plate displays the model designation identified in the type certificate or equivalent document.
    3. (c) Enter the model designation exactly as it appears on the aircraft identification (ID) plate, including any capital letters, spaces, punctuation, and numerals.
  2. (2) ‘Proposed Purpose’ Block on application form
    1. (a) Select the main purpose for which the aircraft will be operated.
    2. (b) The Canadian Certificate of Registration displays a field labeled ‘Purpose’ with one of three possible types, or purposes:
      1. (i) Private
      2. (ii) Commercial
      3. (iii) State
    3. (c) The purpose classification is recorded according to the applicant’s declaration at the time of registry.
    4. (d) The purpose type displayed on the Certificate of Registration does not restrict or permit any operational role for the aircraft. This designation is used for statistical purposes only. It does not affect the aircraft’s maintenance requirements.
    5. (e) An aircraft may be operated in a different role than the purpose (type) displayed on the Certificate of Registration.
    6. (f) No proof of commercial operation is required in order to obtain a certificate of registration that displays ‘commercial’ in the purpose field.
    7. (g) If the operational role of the aircraft changes, the registered owner may, at their discretion, choose to request an amended Certificate of Registration.
    8. (h) When an aircraft is registered to a Government in Canada, the Certificate of Registration may display ‘State’ in the purpose field. Despite the ‘State’ designation, the aircraft remains a Canadian civil aircraft and is subject to the CARs.
  3. (3) Maximum Take-off Weight (MTOW)
    1. (a) When registering an aircraft, TCCA collects and records some statistical information, including the aircraft’s Maximum Take-off Weight (MTOW).
    2. (b) The weight recorded in the CCAR for a particular aircraft is taken from information provided by the owner on application for registration. Subsequent changes in the MTOW will only be recorded in the registry if TCCA is asked to make the change by the registered owner or their agent.
    3. (c) The aircraft’s registered MTOW is not displayed on the certificate of registration but is publicly available and may be used by other agencies, for example in the billing of landing fees.
    4. (d) The MTOW in CCAR is not authoritative and is not an approval to fly at that weight. The true MTOW limitation will be found in the aircraft flight manual, on placards or elsewhere.
  4. (4) Agent for an Individual Applicant
    1. (a) Application for registration may be made by an agent who is acting on behalf on an individual or entity. Documentary evidence that establishes the signing authority of the agent must be provided by the individual or entity.
    2. (b) The individual to whom the aircraft will be registered must be qualified to be a registered owner.
  5. (5) Foreign owned Canadian Entitie
    1. (a) When completing an application to register an aircraft to an entity, the person must declare whether or not the entity meets the definition of Canadian. Refer to section 4.5 – Foreign-owned Canadian Entities.
  6. (6) ‘Is aircraft subject of an IDERA?’
    1. (a) Form 26-0522 – Application for Registration of Aircraft - asks if the aircraft is subject to an IDERA. If the aircraft is the subject of an Irrevocable De-registration and Export Request Authorisation (IDERA), a copy of the IDERA should be attached to the application for registration.
    2. (b) An IDERA is a document given to TCCA by an applicant for registration or registered owner to identify an Authorized Party. An IDERA requests that TCCA cancel the registration on receipt of a demand from the Authorized Party named in the IDERA.
    3. For information about IDERAs, consult the Protocol to the Convention on International Interests in Mobile Equipment on Matters Specific to Aircraft Equipment.
    4. (c) The protocol generally applies to:
      1. (i) fixed wing aircraft having at least 8 seats or a cargo capacity greater than 2750 kg, and
      2. (ii) helicopters having at least 5 seats or a cargo capacity greater than 450 kg.
    5. (d) TCCA is required to honour a request by the Authorised party for de-registration solely on the basis of the recorded IDERA and without the need for a court order or the further consent of the registered owner.
    6. (e) Only one IDERA can be recorded against an aircraft.
    7. (f) Only one Authorized Party can be identified in an IDERA.
    8. (g) The existence of an IDERA does not supersede TCCA’s right to cancel a registration in the event of a court order, or where it is in the public interest to do so.
  7. (7) Two or More Persons as Owners
    1. (a) An aircraft may be registered to two or more persons.
    2. (b) Only one of the owners will receive communications from TCCA regarding the aircraft.
      The Certificate of Registration, Airworthiness Directives, Safety Alerts, etc. will be sent to the person listed first on the application for registration.
    3. (c) Each applicant must provide proof that they are qualified to be the registered owner of a Canadian aircraft.
    4. (d) Each applicant must provide documentary evidence showing that they each have legal custody and control of the aircraft.
    5. (e) The Certificate of Registration does not record a fraction of ownership. For example, if one owner has 10% of the ownership while their partner has 90%, this will not be recorded in the aircraft’s registration.
    6. (f) An aircraft may also be registered to multiple entities, or to a combination of entities and individuals. While these types of complex multiple owner registrations are technically permitted by the regulations, persons entering into these arrangements should ensure that their group of registrants will be able to comply with all applicable regulations, particularly when one or more members wishes to operate under Part IV, VI or VII of the CARs.
    7. (g) Each registered owner of an aircraft may be jointly and severally liable for all aspects of its registration and operation.
    8. (h) Co-applicants may provide separate leasing agreements showing that they have legal custody and control of the aircraft, provided that the leasing agreements do not contain language that would prevent registration to two or more applicants.
    9. (i) If one of the joint registered owners of an aircraft dies, the Certificate of Registration is automatically cancelled. The interim Certificate of Registration will be available for the surviving registered owner(s). Refer to Section 9.0 – Interim Registration.
    10. (j) TCCA will not mediate or arbitrate disputes arising from an aircraft registered to two or more owners.
    11. (k) In any arrangement of two or more persons as owners, a situation may arise where one of the owners is no longer willing, capable or qualified to continue in the role of a registered owner. When it has become apparent to the remaining owner(s) that this has resulted in a change of custody and control of the aircraft, they must notify TCCA of the change in custody and control and apply for a new Certificate of Registration.

7.3 When an application for registration is processed

  1. (1) When the aircraft is registered in the system, the current information for the aircraft will appear on TCCA’s CCAR web page. The aircraft may not be operated until a valid certificate of registration is on board. If there is no valid interim certificate of registration, the aircraft must not fly until a certificate of registration is on board.
  2. (2) In the past, Certificates of Registration were printed on special paper and delivered to the registered owner by mail.
  3. (3) TCCA now issues the Certificate of Registration in electronic form, to be printed by the registered owner on any suitable high-quality white paper.
  4. (4) The applicant will receive by email or similar electronic means:
    1. (a) A cover letter with a general overview of some responsibilities of a registered owner.
    2. (b) The certificate of registration. This document must be printed out, then carried on board the aircraft any time it is operated.
    3. (c) A blank interim certificate of registration for future use, with instructions for its activation. This document should be kept safe, as it will be needed whenever the information on the CofR has to be changed, or by a future purchaser.

7.4 Canadian beacon registry

  1. (1) All 406 MHz Emergency Locator Transmitters (ELTs) must be registered with the Canadian Beacon Registry.
    1. (a) Online at www.cbr-rcb.ca,
    2. (b) Telephone: 1-877-406-SOS1 (7671)
    3. (c) Fax: 1-877-406-FAX8 (3298)
    4. (d) Email: cbr@sarnet.dnd.ca, or
    5. (e) By post:
      Canadian Beacon Registry
      BFC Trenton, PO Box 1000
      Stn. Forces Astr
      Ontario, K0K 3W0
  2. (2) If you have a 406 MHz emergency beacon, it is important that the registration information be accurate. Any time a new Certificate of Registration is issued, or the information on the certificate changes, the information at the Canadian Beacon registry should be verified by the Registered Owner.
  3. (3) Update the information in the Beacon Registry:
    1. (a) if you move,
    2. (b) if you want to update the emergency contact information,
    3. (c) if your phone number changes, or
    4. (d) if any of the important information in the beacon registry changes, such as colour of aircraft.

7.5 The Certificate of Registration

  1. (1) A Certificate of Registration is physical evidence that registration has taken place; that an entry has been made in the Canadian Civil Aircraft Registry.
  2. (2) A Certificate of Registration is not a certificate of title. It does not certify that the aircraft is the property of the registered owner.
  3. (3) A paper copy of the Certificate of Registration must be carried on board the aircraft in accordance with CAR 202.35, and Article 29(a) of The Convention.

7.6 Replacement of the Certificate of Registration

  1. (1) When a certificate is delivered electronically, the official ‘master copy’ of a Certificate of Registration is the one stored in TCCA’s digital archives.
  2. (2) If a printed copy of an electronically delivered Certificate of Registration is lost, damaged, or destroyed, the owner may simply print a replacement copy.
  3. (3) If the owner no longer has access to their electronic copy, they should contact TCCA for a replacement. The fee for replacement of a Canadian Aviation Document applies.
  4. (4) If a Certificate of Registration that was delivered without an accompanying electronic version is lost, damaged, or destroyed, the owner should contact TCCA for a replacement. The fee for replacement of a Canadian Aviation Document applies.

7.7 Returning a Certificate of Registration

  1. (1) When custody and control of an aircraft is transferred, fulfilling the requirement to return the previous CofR is the responsibility of the previous registered owner.
  2. (2) Return of the previous CofR is not a requirement for issue of a new one.

7.8 Provisional registration

  1. (1) A provisional registration is intended to be a convenient short-term option to relocate an aircraft that is not registered in Canada or in another country.
  2. (2) A provisional registration expires after a specified date, or when the aircraft arrives at a specified destination.
  3. (3) If an aircraft is validly registered, a provisional registration is not mandatory for import or ferry flights.
  4. (4) An email requesting a Provisional should say “PROVISIONAL Certificate of Registration” in the subject line.
  5. (5) A provisional registration is most appropriate for a person who will not be operating the aircraft again in Canada once the import or ferry flight is complete, or for a person who needs to import an aircraft within a limited time frame.
  6. (6) A provisional registration allows registration when a C & C document and/or a photograph of the aircraft ID plate are unavailable. All other requirements for the issue of a continuing Certificate of Registration apply.
  7. (7) If the aircraft is being imported from another country, a notification of de-registration or non-registration must be received from that country before the aircraft can be registered in Canada.
  8. (8) The aircraft must display a Canadian registration mark and must be eligible for a Canadian flight authority. The aircraft must not be flown unless there is a flight authority in effect.
  9. (9) There is no application form for a provisional registration, but the application form (26-0521 or 26-0522) for a continuing registration can be used to capture the necessary information.
  10. (10) The fee for a provisional registration is set out in Schedule II to CAR 104.
  11. (11) An aircraft that is provisionally registered will be issued a provisional CofR electronically or by mail.
  12. (12) A provisional CofR cannot be converted to a Continuing CofR. A new application, with C & C document, a photo of the aircraft identification plate and fee are required for a Continuing CofR.
  13. (13) A provisional CofR is not transferrable to a new owner and does not provide an interim registration for a new owner. If the aircraft is transferred to a new owner, the new owner may not operate the aircraft until they have obtained their own new CofR.

7.9 Service standard for registration applications

  1. (1) Transport Canada Civil Aviation service standards for the delivery of aircraft registration services state the level of performance that applicants can reasonably expect to encounter under normal circumstances.
  2. (2) Current service standards for aircraft registration activities may be viewed at: https://tc.canada.ca/en/corporate-services/transparency/aviation-service-standards-0
  3. (3) The Service standards are based on all information necessary for the task being submitted and available.

7.10 Cancellation of a Certificate of Registration

  1. (1) A Certificate of Registration is automatically cancelled by operation of law and without notification:
    1. (a) When any part of custody and control is transferred,
    2. (b) When the aircraft’s Interim or Provisional registration expires,
    3. (c) When there is a change in the status of the C & C document:
      1. (i) The lease or other document that was used to establish custody and control ceases to be in effect, unless the registered owner submits a copy of a new document within seven days after the date of expiry,
      2. (ii) Misrepresentation or fraudulent documentation is discovered.
    4. (d) When there is a change in custody and control, or change of status of the registered owner:
      1. (i) Any registered owner ceases to be qualified,
      2. (ii) Any registered owner dies,
      3. (iii) If an entity is wound up or dissolved,
      4. (iv) If an entity is amalgamated with another entity, regardless of whether the newly formed entity uses the same name of the previous registered owner.
    5. (e) When there is a change in status of the Aircraft:
      1. (i) It no longer meets the definition of an ultra-light,
      2. (ii) It has not operated in flight during the last 5 years (except when the aircraft is undergoing restoration or is an ultra-light aeroplane),
      3. (iii) The aircraft is reported to be destroyed or permanently withdrawn from use. In these events, TCCA must be notified within 7 days,
      4. (iv) The aircraft is missing, and the search is terminated, or it has been missing for 60 days or more. In these events, TCCA must be notified within 7 days.
  2. (2) A Certificate of Registration may be cancelled when its holder voluntarily surrenders it to the Minister.

7.11 Death of a Registered Owner

  1. (1) Please notify TCCA of the death of any registered owner. There is no time limit for this notification.
  2. (2) When any registered owner dies, the Certificate of Registration is cancelled. The aircraft may not be operated until a new Certificate of Registration (interim, provisional or continuing) is on board the aircraft.
  3. (3) If title to the aircraft passes to the estate of the deceased, the recipient may operate the aircraft under the interim registration. Refer to section 9.0 – Interim Registration for instructions on how to activate an interim registration.
  4. (4) Refer also to section 5.8 – Last Will and Testament.

8.0 Transfer of Custody and Control

  1. (1) A new owner is not obligated to apply for registration; however, the aircraft must not be operated in flight until it has been registered and a certificate of registration is on board.
  2. (2) It is the responsibility of the previous owner to notify TCCA of the transfer by not later than seven days after the transfer. The notification can be made on the Transport Canada Civil Aviation website, or the previous owner can use form 26-0519.
  3. (3) A Notification of Transfer of Aircraft Ownership form is available at https://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Corp-Serv-Gen/5/forms-formulaires/download/26-0519_BO_PX.
  4. (4) A paper Notification of Change of Owner card (form 26-0519) was included with certificates of registration issued before 2021. Although TCCA will continue to process information that is received via this form, the use of the electronic form is encouraged.
  5. (5) If the aircraft is an Advanced Ultra-light, both the previous owner and the new owner should complete a Fit-For-Flight form. Refer to section 10.4 – Advanced Ultra-Light Aeroplanes (AULA).

8.1 Change of address

  1. (1) Each registered owner must inform TCCA of any change in their own address.
  2. (2) Within seven days of the change, they must:
    1. (a) Send an email with the new address information to a TCCA general email inbox. Use the subject line “Change of Address”.
    2. (b) Refer to section 9.0 – Interim Registration for instructions on how to activate an interim registration.
  3. (3) TCCA will issue a new Certificate of Registration. If the aircraft was registered to multiple persons, a new certificate of registration will only be issued if the address shown on the certificate of registration changes.

8.2 Change of name

  1. (1) Registered owners must inform TCCA of any change in their name.
  2. (2) Within seven days of the change, they must:
    1. (a) Pay the fee for amendment to a Certificate of Registration and record the receipt number from the online payment system.
    2. (b) Send an email with the previous name, the new name, and the receipt number from the online payment system to a TCCA general email inbox. Attach a copy of a new official identification document. Use the subject line “Change of Name”.
    3. (c) Refer to section 9.0 – Interim Registration for instructions on how to activate an interim registration.
  3. (3) TCCA will issue a new Certificate of Registration. If the aircraft was registered to two or more persons, and the change of name was not for the person whose name and address appear on the Certificate of Registration, no new Certificate of Registration will be issued.

8.3 Other amendments to a Certificate of Registration

  1. (1) Modification of aircraft model or serial number
    1. (a) Before modifying the aircraft model or serial number on the aircraft ID plate, you must have received written authorization from a Transport Canada Civil Aviation Safety Inspector – Airworthiness.
    2. (b) An approved modification to the aircraft may require the installation of an additional aircraft identification plate or the modification of the existing plate. Refer to AC 201-002 – Aircraft Identification and Marking.
    3. (c) Registered owners must inform TCCA of any change in their aircraft’s model or serial number. Before the aircraft is flown:
      1. (i) Pay the fee for amendment to a Certificate of Registration and record the receipt number from the online payment system.
      2. (ii) Send an email with the new model or serial number information and the receipt number from the online payment system to a TCCA general email inbox. Use the subject line “Change of Model” or “Change of Serial Number”.
      3. (iii) A photograph of the new or amended identification plate must be provided.
      4. (iv) Refer to section 9.0 – Interim Registration for instructions on how to activate an interim registration.
      5. (v) TCCA will issue a new Certificate of Registration.
    4. (d) You must contact a CASI-A to obtain a new flight authority with the updated model or serial number.
  2. (2) Change of registered purpose (Private or Commercial)
    1. (a) Registered owners may request a change of registered purpose
      1. (i) Pay the fee for amendment to a Certificate of Registration and record the receipt number from the online payment system.
      2. (ii) Send an email with the new purpose information and the receipt number from the online payment system to a TCCA general email inbox. Use the subject line “Change of Purpose”.
      3. (iii) Refer to section 9.0 – Interim Registration for instructions on how to activate an interim registration.
      4. (iv) TCCA will issue a new Certificate of Registration.
  3. (3) Change of mark format to or from vintage
    1. (a) Registered owners must notify TCCA when their aircraft marks are changed to or from the vintage display format (CF-xxx). (Only an aircraft that was manufactured prior to January 1, 1957 may have its marks changed to the vintage format.)
    2. (b) If the registration marks are changed to or from the vintage format, before the aircraft is flown:
      1. (i) Send an email advising that the mark format has been changed to a TCCA general email inbox. Use the subject line “Change to/from Vintage Marks”.
      2. (ii) Refer to section 9.0 – Interim Registration for instructions on how to activate an interim registration.
      3. (iii) TCCA will issue a new Certificate of Registration.
      4. (iv) Request an amended Certificate of Airworthiness by submitting an email titled “NEW Certificate of Airworthiness, mark change.”
  4. (4) Addition or deletion of an entity’s trade name
    1. (a) An entity may request the addition or deletion of their trade name on the Certificate of Registration alongside their legal name
      1. (i) Pay the fee for amendment to a Certificate of Registration and record the receipt number from the online payment system.
      2. (ii) Send an email with the previous name, the new name, and the receipt number from the online payment system to a TCCA general email inbox. Attach a copy of a new official identification document. Use the subject line “Change of Name”.
      3. (iii) Refer to section 9.0 – Interim Registration for instructions on how to activate an interim registration.
      4. (iv) TCCA will issue a new Certificate of Registration.
  5. (5) Other modifications to the information appearing on a Certificate of Registration are not amendments, and require a full application for registration, for example:
    1. (a) Amalgamation of entities
    2. (b) Adding or deleting another owner
    3. (c) Change of registration mark
    4. (d) Change from Advanced Ultra-light to Basic Ultra-light

9.0 Interim registration

  1. (1) When custody and control of a Canadian-registered aircraft is transferred from a Canadian registered owner to another Canadian, the certificate of registration is cancelled. Before the aircraft is flown by the new owner, they must submit an application for registration.
  2. (2) While their application is being processed by TCCA, the new owner may operate the aircraft for a limited time with an Interim Certificate of registration.
  3. (3) A blank interim certificate of registration and instructions for its use are included with each continuing Certificate of Registration sent by TCCA.
  4. (4) If the blank interim portion has been lost or damaged, TCCA can supply a replacement copy on written request from:
    1. (a) the current registered owner, or
    2. (b) the new owner or any applicant, on receipt of their application for registration.
  5. (5) An interim is not valid until the application form has been sent to TCCA and the required fee for registration has been paid.
  6. (6) An interim registration is valid for 90 days from the date (the “activation date”) that is entered on the application for registration and copied onto the interim Certificate of Registration. The interim Certificate of Registration must use the same date as the application for registration.
  7. (7) When the interim certificate of registration is completed, it must be on board the aircraft whenever it is operated until it is replaced by a new continuing certificate of registration.
  8. (8) An interim registration is not transferrable. Once an interim registration is activated to change the Registered Owner of an aircraft, it may not be used a second time. If there is any further transfer of any part of the custody and control of the aircraft, the interim is no longer valid.
  9. (9) Interim registration is not available for newly imported or newly manufactured aircraft.
  10. (10) An aircraft can only have an interim registration when the applicant is qualified to be the registered owner of a Canadian aircraft. An interim registration may not be used by a non-Canadian to operate an aircraft for the purpose of export.
  11. (11) If the aircraft ownership passes to an intermediate title holder who does not wish to operate the aircraft, they do not need to apply for registration or activate the interim.

9.1 Use of Interim for amendment of Certificate of Registration

  1. (1) An interim Certificate of registration also allows a registered owner to continue operating their aircraft while amending the information shown on the certificate of registration, for example:
    1. (a) when making a change to the registered owner’s name or address,
    2. (b) adding or deleting an entity’s trade name
    3. (c) when the aircraft model designation is changed due to a modification and an additional ID plate is installed,
    4. (d) when the registered ‘purpose’ of the aircraft is changed,
    5. (e) when there is an authorized replacement of the aircraft ID plate, and the replacement displays a different manufacturer name.

10.0 Ultra-Light Aeroplanes

10.1 General

  1. (1) There are two categories of Ultra-light aeroplane:
    1. (a) Basic Ultra-light Aeroplane (BULA), and
    2. (b) Advanced Ultra-light Aeroplane (AULA).
  2. (2) Ultra-light Aeroplanes must be identified, marked and registered.
  3. (3) An aircraft registered as an Ultra-light has a Certificate of Registration displaying “Basic Ultra-Light” or “Advanced Ultra-Light” in the “Purpose” box.
  4. (4) Most aircraft registered as Ultra-light aircraft display registration markings in the C-I_ _ _ series.
  5. (5) Ultra-light aircraft are exempt from the requirement for a flight authority, are not issued a Certificate of Airworthiness, and are subject to operational and usage restrictions.

10.2 Basic Ultra-Light Aeroplanes (BULA)

  1. (1) Any aeroplane that meets the definition of a BULA can be registered as a BULA.
  2. (2) Powered parachutes are included in the Basic Ultra-Light aeroplane category.
  3. (3) A glider may not be registered as a BULA.
  4. (4) A rotary wing aircraft is by definition not an aeroplane, so there cannot be rotary wing “BULA”.
  5. (5) There are no design standards for Basic Ultra-lights. Transport Canada does not test or certify the quality of Basic Ultra-light design or construction. The owner of a Basic Ultra-light bears full responsibility for keeping it in a safe condition for flight.

10.3 Application for registration of a Basic Ultra-light

  1. (1) The aircraft must meet the definition of Basic Ultra-light. It must be a fixed-wing, powered aeroplane with a maximum of two seats, a maximum take-off weight not exceeding 544 kg (1200 lbs), and an indicated stall speed in the landing configuration of 39 knots (45 mph) (72 km/h) or less at the maximum take-off weight.
  2. (2) The aircraft must be properly identified with an aircraft ID plate that complies with Subpart 201 of the CARs. A Basic Ultra-Light ID plate must be installed where it is visible from the pilot seat. TCCA must have a clear photograph of the aircraft ID plate. Refer to AC 201-002 – Aircraft Identification and Marking for further details.
  3. (3) The aircraft must display Canadian registration marks. If the aircraft has already been marked and registered in Canada, it will keep its existing marks. For details on obtaining and displaying new Canadian registration marks, refer to AC 201-002 – Aircraft Identification and Marking.
  4. (4) The applicant may apply for registration through the Transport Canada Civil Aviation website or submit an application form. Refer to Section 7.1 – Application Forms.
  5. (5) Each applicant must provide satisfactory evidence that they are Canadian. Individuals must be at least 16. Refer to Section 4.0 – The Registered Owner. Do not send original documents to Transport Canada.
  6. (6) Each applicant must provide a copy of the legal document establishing them as the aircraft owner. Refer to Section 5.0 – Documentary Evidence of Legal Custody and Control.
  7. (7) The fee for issuance of an aircraft certificate of registration must be paid,
    1. (a) by applying for registration through the Transport Canada Civil Aviation website or
    2. (b) by using the Online Payment System at https://www.canada.ca/payments-air. The payment confirmation number or a copy of the TCCA receipt must be sent with the application or noted on the application form.
  8. (8) If the Basic Ultra-light is equipped with an Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT), the emergency search and rescue information must be updated. Refer to Section 7.4 – Canadian Beacon Registry.
  9. (9) If the Basic Ultra-light has recently been imported, the Civil Aviation Authority of the exporting country should notify TCAA that the aircraft has been removed from the foreign register or was never registered there.

10.4 Advanced Ultra-Light Aeroplanes (AULA)

  1. (1) An AULA is a fixed wing aeroplane that has a type design that is declared by its manufacturer to be in compliance with the standards specified in the manual entitled Design Standards for Advanced Ultra-light Aeroplanes. This manual is available from the Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association of Canada.
  2. (2) TCCA does not verify, approve, or certify Advanced Ultra-light aircraft designs or individual aircraft. All responsibility and liability for the aircraft design and construction remains with the Manufacturer.
  3. (3) The owner of an Advanced Ultra-light must do all maintenance, repairs, and modifications in accordance with its manufacturer’s instructions.
  4. (4) The manufacturer of an AULA is the organization that currently holds the type definition (the complete design documentation package) and has signed a Declaration of Compliance in respect of the model.
  5. (5) In order for a model of aeroplane to be registered as an AULA, it must appear on the Listing of models eligible to be registered as Advanced Ultra-light Aeroplanes on TCCA’s website at https://www.tc.canada.ca/eng/civilaviation/standards/general-ccarcs-advancedullist-2036.htm
  6. (6) In order for a model of aeroplane to appear on this Listing, the manufacturer must provide to TCCA:
    1. (a) a Declaration of Compliance, and
    2. (b) a Manufacturer Specified Maintenance Program.
  7. (7) If a model of aeroplane is sold elsewhere as non-conforming to the Design Standards for Advanced Ultra-light Aeroplanes, it will not be recognized as eligible for Canadian registration as an AULA. Manufacturers wishing to market a ‘de-rated’ Canadian model must identify these aircraft with a unique model designation.
  8. (8) After assembly, each individual new AULA must be inspected by the manufacturer to the extent necessary to confirm that it has been assembled exactly as specified by the design and is fit for flight. If the aeroplane is satisfactory, the manufacturer will issue a signed Statement of Conformity for the aeroplane.
  9. (9) The statement of conformity is submitted to TCCA with the initial application for registration and will be permanently stored with the aircraft’s file.
  10. (10) When a used AULA is sold, a Fit-For-Flight form should be completed if the purchaser wishes to register the aircraft as an AULA.
    1. (a) The seller certifies on the form that the aeroplane has been maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and instructions, that all mandatory actions have been completed, that no modifications have been made without the manufacturer’s written approval.
    2. (b) The purchaser declares on the form that they have inspected the aircraft and have found it to be fit for flight.
  11. (11) The signed fit for flight form is submitted to TCCA with the application for registration and will be stored with the aircraft’s file.
  12. (12) Initial registration as an AULA cannot be obtained under a Fit-For-Flight form.
  13. (13) A manufacturer may sign a new Statement of Conformity for an existing and previously registered aeroplane, provided they have inspected it and found it conforms to the type definition and is fit for flight. If the manufacturer is willing to sign a new Statement of Conformity, there is no requirement for a Fit-For-Flight form. It is the manufacturer’s responsibility to determine the necessary extent of inspection.
  14. (14) An aeroplane that was constructed as an Amateur-built cannot be registered as an Advanced Ultra-light, since each Amateur-built aircraft is unique, by definition, so conformity to the type definition cannot be established.
  15. (15) An imported Ultra-Light aeroplane cannot be registered as an AULA unless TCCA has received a Statement of Conformity for the aircraft, signed by the manufacturer.

10.5 Application for registration of an Advanced Ultra-light Aeroplane

  1. (1) The exact aircraft model must appear on the Listing of models eligible to be registered as Advanced Ultra-light Aeroplanes on TCCA’s website at https://www.tc.canada.ca/eng/civilaviation/standards/general-ccarcs-advancedullist-2036.htm
  2. (2) If the Advanced Ultra-light aeroplane is new, the manufacturer must inspect the aeroplane and sign a Statement of Conformity to be included with the application for registration.
  3. (3) If the aeroplane was previously registered as an Advanced Ultra-light, the application must include a Fit-For-Flight form completed by the previous registered owner and the applicant for registration.
  4. (4) The aircraft must be properly identified with an aircraft ID plate that complies with Subpart 201 of the CARs. An Advanced Ultra-Light ID plate must be installed where it is visible from the pilot seat. TCCA must have a clear photograph of the aircraft ID plate. Refer to AC 201-002 – Aircraft Identification and Marking for further details.
  5. (5) The aircraft must display Canadian registration marks. If the aircraft has already been marked and registered in Canada, it will keep its existing marks. For details on obtaining and displaying new Canadian registration marks, refer to AC 201-002 – Aircraft Identification and Marking.
  6. (6) The applicant may apply for registration through the Transport Canada Civil Aviation website or submit an application form. Refer to Section 7.1 – Application Forms.
  7. (7) Each applicant must provide satisfactory evidence that they are Canadian. Individuals must be at least 16. Refer to Section 4.0 – The Registered Owner. Do not send original documents to Transport Canada.
  8. (8) Each applicant must provide a copy of the legal document establishing them as the aircraft owner. Refer to Section 5.0 – Documentary Evidence of Legal Custody and Control.
  9. (9) The fee for issuance of an aircraft certificate of registration must be paid,
    1. (a) by applying for registration through the Transport Canada Civil Aviation website or
    2. (b) by using the Online Payment System at https://www.canada.ca/payments-air. The payment confirmation number or a copy of the TCCA receipt must be sent with the application or noted on the application form.
  10. (10) If the Advanced Ultra-light is equipped with an Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT), the emergency search and rescue information must be updated. Refer to section 7.4 – Canadian Beacon Registry.

10.6 Conversion Between Basic and Advanced Ultra-light Registration Status

  1. (1) If an aircraft no longer meets the requirements to be an Advanced Ultra-light due to (for example) undocumented repairs, unapproved modifications or lack of technical records, it may be registered as a BULA if it meets the definition of a Basic Ultra-light.
  2. (2) Once an Ultra-light has been registered as a BULA, it is operated and maintained outside the manufacturer’s responsibility and oversight. If an owner wishes to convert the aeroplane to AULA registration, they must consult the manufacturer. The manufacturer can determine the necessary extent of inspection and rectification that is required to return the aeroplane to conformity. If and when the manufacturer issues a new Statement of Conformity, the aeroplane may be registered as an AULA.

10.7 Cancellation of Ultra-light Registration

  1. (1) An Ultra-light registration will not be automatically cancelled after five years of disuse. A registered Ultra-light will remain on the registry indefinitely unless TCCA is advised of a cause for cancellation as discussed in Section 12.22 – Cancellation of a Certificate of Registration.
  2. (2) Owners of non-operational Ultra-lights should advise TCCA that the aeroplane has been destroyed or has been permanently removed from use.

11.0 Export

  1. (1) Export is the removal of an aircraft from the Canadian register.
  2. (2) Aircraft may only be registered in one country at a time. When an aircraft is exported, it must be removed from the Canadian register before it is entered onto another.
  3. (3) When legal custody and control is transferred to a non-Canadian (e.g.: by a bill of sale or lease), the certificate of registration is automatically cancelled. When the registration is cancelled the flight authority is no longer in effect. The aircraft may not be flown until a new registration and a flight authority are obtained from the importing country.
  4. (4) If the aircraft is to be flown to its destination, the importer and exporter should agree to either:
    1. (a) fly the aircraft to the destination country under the Canadian registration and flight authority and then complete the transfer of legal custody and control, or
    2. (b) complete the transfer of legal custody and control and then obtain the new foreign registration and flight authority before the aircraft is flown.
  5. (5) When legal custody and control is transferred to a non-Canadian the Canadian who sold or leased the exported aircraft must:
    1. (a) remove the Canadian registration marks from the aircraft, and notify TCCA of their removal,
    2. (b) remove the 24-bit code from the transponder, ELT, and any other avionics equipment, and notify TCCA of their removal,
    3. (c) within 7 days after the transfer notify TCCA of
      1. (i) the date of the removal of the marks and the 24-bit code
      2. (ii) the date of transfer of legal ownership, and the date of exportation, if applicable,
    4. (d) provide TCCA with a copy of the bill of sale, lease or other associated documents,
    5. (e) inform TCCA which country’s Civil Aviation Authority to notify of the export. This may be a different country than that of the purchaser or lessee.
  6. Note: The vendor or lessor must ensure that these actions are carried out. Another person may notify TCCA on behalf of the vendor or lessor. The vendor or lessor may be a different person than the previous registered owner.
  7. (6) The previous owner does not retain the right to use the registration marks removed from an exported aircraft. If the previous owner wishes to use the registration marks on a new aircraft, they should reserve the marks as soon as possible after the aircraft is removed from the registry for export. Refer to AC 201-002 – Aircraft Identification and Marking.
  8. (7) If an IDERA (Irrevocable De-Registration and Export Request) is recorded in respect of the aircraft, the aircraft may not be removed from the register unless the removal is at the request of or by the consent of the Authorized Party.
  9. (8) TCCA will notify the appropriate foreign civil aviation authority that the aircraft particulars have been removed from the Canadian Civil Aircraft Register by means of an internationally standardized Certificate of De-Registration.
  10. (9) A Certificate of De-Registration (form 26-0876) means only that an aircraft has been removed from the Canadian register and does not indicate any information regarding an aircraft’s airworthiness or financial title history.
  11. (10) In response to the TCCA Certificate of De-Registration, some national registers will request information regarding the previous title holder of the aircraft. The response provided is always that TCCA does not record financial information regarding aircraft ownership beyond that required to prove custody and control, and does not record liens or financial title.
  12. (11) Airworthiness information during the export process may be conveyed to an importing authority by an Export Airworthiness Certificate (EAC), issued under CAR 509.04. It is optional for a person exporting an aircraft from Canada to apply for an EAC.
  13. (12) An EAC cannot be issued to an aircraft that has been entered on a foreign registry.

12.0 Information management

12.1 Publication of the Canadian Civil Aircraft Register

  1. (1) Under CAR subsection 202.69(2), TCCA may publish information that has been entered in the Canadian Civil Aircraft Register (CCAR) in respect of a Canadian aircraft, including owners’ addresses.
  2. (2) This information is published and made available for download on the public website: http://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Saf-Sec-Sur/2/CCARCS-RIACC/.
  3. (3) The information appearing on the public website is current data read directly from the registration database.
  4. (4) Since the public website is an exact representation of the information in the register, it may be considered to be the register.
  5. (5) Under Article 21 of the Chicago Convention, when requested by any other contracting State or by ICAO, Canada will supply the registration and ownership information of any Canadian aircraft.
  6. (6) Canada also provides regular registration and ownership reports to ICAO.
  7. (7) Some of the information necessary to issue a Certificate of Registration is Personal Information and will not be disclosed.
  8. (8) "Personal information" is defined as any information, in any form, about an identifiable individual.
  9. (9) Personal information collected by TC is protected from disclosure to unauthorized persons and/or agencies subject to the provisions of the Privacy Act. Refer to section 3 of the Privacy Act for further details regarding personal information.
  10. (10) Personal information will be protected under the provisions of the Privacy Act and is described in TC's Personal Information Bank number TC PPU 010, which is available in TC Info Source at https://tc.canada.ca/en/info-source.
  11. (11) Individuals have the right to the protection of and access to their personal information and to request corrections where the individual believes there is an error or omission.
  12. (12) Individuals may contact the TCCA's Access to Information and Privacy Protection Division to request corrections.
  13. (13) The information requested is required by TC for the purpose of administering the Canadian Civil Aircraft Registry. The personal information is stored in the Canadian Civil Aircraft Register which includes the name and address of each registered owner. Personal Information is also used by the Canadian Civil Aircraft Register Computer System-Evolution (CCARCS-E), a live database that supports several mailings from various divisions of Transport Canada.
  14. (14) The collection and disclosure of personal information is done under the authority of Aeronautics Act, pursuant to sections 202.02, 202.16, 202.35, 202.51, 202.52, 202.57 and 203.03 of the CARs.
  15. (15) Information will also be disclosed to foreign aviation authorities to fulfill the obligation under Article 21 of the Chicago Convention underlying the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
  16. (16) Personal information is used by and linked to other Civil Aviation databases such as the National Aeronautical Product Approval System (NAPA), the Continuing Airworthiness Web Information System (CAWIS), the National Aviation Company Information System (NACIS), the Enforcement Management System (EMS), and the Civil Aviation Daily Occurrence Reporting System (CADORS), in order to populate, within each respective database, information relating to the registration and licensing of aircraft.
  17. (17) Individuals have the right to file a complaint with the Privacy Commissioner of Canada regarding the institution's handling of their personal information.

12.2 Removal of Information from the Canadian Civil Aircraft Register

  1. (1) When a Certificate of Registration is cancelled, TCCA will mark the entry in the register as cancelled. Most information will remain publicly available through the historical search function on the public website.
  2. (2) When a Certificate of Registration is cancelled, TCCA may remove the aircraft details from the current register.

12.3 Sending information to TCCA

  1. (1) Do not send original documents to TCCA.
  2. (2) General Email inboxes
    1. (a) Atlantic Region - aviation.atl@tc.gc.ca
    2. (b) Quebec Region - aviation.que@tc.gc.ca
    3. (c) Ontario Region - aviation.ont@tc.gc.ca
    4. (d) Prairie and Northern Region - aviation.pnr-rpn@tc.gc.ca
    5. (e) Pacific Region - aviation.pac@tc.gc.ca
  3. (3) To ensure most efficient processing:
    1. (a) Include manufacturer, model, serial number and registration marks of the subject aircraft, if known.
    2. (b) When an email message pertains to an import or export, ensure that the subject line begins with IMPORT or EXPORT or PROVISIONAL. If the aircraft is NEW, include NEW in the subject line.
  4. (4) Email messages, including any attachments, should be smaller than 20MB in size.
  5. (5) Compressed “Zip” files are blocked and will not be received by TCCA.
  6. (6) TCCA Ottawa does not process applications for aircraft registration.
  7. (7) Secure electronic delivery of sensitive personal information such as copies of identity documents or financial information, contact the nearest regional office for details.
  8. (8) Toll-free telephone number for all regions: 1-800-305-2059.

13.0 Document history

  1. (1) Not Applicable

14.0 Contact us

For more information, please contact:
Operational Airworthiness Division, Standards Branch (AARTM)
E-mail: AirRegFax@tc.gc.ca .

We invite suggestions for amendment to this document. Submit your comments to:
AART Documentation Services
E-mail: AARTDocServices-ServicesdocAART@tc.gc.ca

Original signed by

Linda Kovacic
Director, Standards
Civil Aviation

Appendix A — Template Bill of Sale

I / we, _________________________________________________________________________
Being the seller(s) or transferor(s) of this aircraft:
Aircraft Manufacturer Manufacturer’s Model Designation
Serial number Registration Marks
Declare that on this date: _________________________ the legal custody and control of this aircraft has been sold or otherwise transferred to:
Name of New Owner(s)
Address
City Province
e-mail Postal Code
Telephone
Signature(s) of seller(s) or transferor(s)

IMPORTANT: The previous Registered Owner must notify Transport Canada of this transfer.

Form 26-0519 is recommended.
When aircraft ownership changes, the 406MHz ELT must also be transferred. The Canadian Beacon Registry must be contacted by calling 1-877-406-7671 or via email to cbr@sarnet.dnd.ca to advise them of a sale or acquisition of a 406MHz ELT. This information is crucial for search and rescue purposes.
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