LOCATION: National; Additional pressure in Pacific Region (Vancouver, BC)
Issue/Source: N/A
Date: June 2025
Suggested Responses
- Ensuring that Canadians have access to a safe, secure and reliable air transportation system is a top priority for the Government of Canada.
- NAV Canada is a private, not-for-profit organization that delivers Canada’s civil air navigation services. Transport Canada regulates the safety and security aspects of these services.
- We know that NAV Canada is working to address their staffing challenges and continues to keep our system safe.
- NAV Canada is working to ensure that service levels remain competitive, while positioning the organization to accommodate future growth in air traffic.
- To address these challenges, NAV Canada is pursuing a dual-track approach focused on 1) recruitment and training, and 2) investment in technology to support safe and efficient air traffic management.
IF PRESSED
- NAV Canada’s staffing issues are not new, but recent events in Vancouver have brought them into sharper focus.
- NAV Canada is actively working with airport operators to mitigate the impact of flight delays during the summer season which can be caused by a combination of factors, including staffing challenges, infrastructure maintenance, airport construction, surges in demand, adverse weather, and wildfires.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
- As a private not-for-profit non-share capital corporation, NAV Canada is authorized to provide air navigation services by the Civil Air Navigation Services Commercialization Act.
- NAV Canada sets and collects fees to cover its costs, which are reinvested back into the system to improve service and technology. This model allows for innovation and IT and infrastructure upgrades aimed at enhancing operational efficiency in managing Canadian airspace, accommodate the anticipated growth in air traffic, and meet the industry's evolving needs.
- Transport Canada regulates safety, security, and technical matters pertaining to air navigation services through the Aeronautics Act and the Canadian Aviation Regulations.
- More recently, staffing shortages at Vancouver International Airport led to significant delays for passengers. NAV Canada cited unplanned absences and a limited pool of qualified personnel as contributing factors. They proactively communicate delays to passengers via their social media channels.
- NAV Canada’s dual strategy to address staffing shortages – recruitment and training of new controllers, and investment in modern technology – reflects a broader industry shift towards technology and automation to enhance air traffic management efficiency.