If you manufacture aircraft in Canada, you can apply to operate unregistered aircraft for reasons related to manufacturing and exporting.
To do this, first apply for a blanket authorization, and then apply for aircraft marks. You can request multiple production marks at the same time.
Eligibility
You’re eligible to operate an unregistered aircraft in Canada if you:
- manufactured the aircraft in Canada, and
- are qualified to be the registered owner of a Canadian aircraft
Manufacturers can apply to operate unregistered aircraft for these reasons:
- production test flights
- customer acceptance flights
- flights that help complete the manufacturing process
- flights to export aircraft
How to apply
You must apply for a blanket authorization and then apply for aircraft marks.
Apply for blanket authorization
- Submit a written request to the Transport Canada aircraft registry to operate aircraft that are not registered
- The regional manager will issue a blanket authorization to operate your unregistered aircraft for eligible purposes
Note: manufacturers of ultra-light aeroplanes do not need this authorization. But you do need production marks for each ultra-light (see below).
Apply for aircraft marks
Before operating a specific unregistered aircraft, apply for your aircraft marks and display them on the aircraft.
- Reserve nationality and registration marks and display these according to the Canadian Aviation Regulations
- Pay all relevant fees ($45 to reserve a registration mark and $45 to apply for a permit for a specific purpose) using our Online Payment System
- Before operating the aircraft, update the Manufacturer’s Production Marks (MPM) system to confirm appropriate aircraft marks have been affixed
To get access to the MPM system, contact aircraftreghq@tc.gc.ca.