Emergency Security Control of Air Traffic (ESCAT) Plan - TP 1258

Joint document between the Departments of Transport and National Defence, Canada

TP 1258E
(07/2023)
NDID B–GA-005-000-FP-005

Table of Contents

• Foreword
• List of Abbreviations
• Explanation of Terms
• Chapter 1 - ESCAT Plan
  • 1.1 Purpose
  • 1.2 Authority
  • 1.3 Scope
  • 1.4 Description
  • 1.5 Implementation
  • 1.6 Amplifying Information
  • 1.7 Responsibilities
  • 1.8 Communication
  • 1.9 Review
• Chapter 2 - Implementation
  • 2.1 Purpose
  • 2.2 Notification
  • 2.3 Coordination
  • 2.4. Application
• Chapter 3 - Emergency Air Traffic Priority List
  • 3.1 Purpose
  • 3.2 Policy
  • 3.3 Priorities
  • 3.4 Procedures
• Annex A - Map and Coordinates of ESCAT Zones
• Annex B - ESCAT Implementation Procedures
• Annex C - ESCAT Test Procedures
• Annex D - ESCAT Sample NOTAM

Suggestions for changes or inquiries should be forwarded to:

Senior Staff Officer Aerospace Capabilities & Readiness
1 Canadian Air Division HQ
Box 17000 Station Forces
Winnipeg, MB R3J 3Y5
Canada

©His Majesty the King in Right of Canada, as represented by the Ministers of the Departments of Transport and National Defence, Canada 2023.

Permission is granted by the Departments of Transport and National Defence, Canada, to copy and/or reproduce the contents of this publication in whole or in part provided that full acknowledgment is given to the Departments of Transport and National Defence, Canada, and that the material be accurately reproduced. While use of this material has been authorized, Departments of Transport and National Defence, Canada, shall not be responsible for the manner in which the information is presented, nor for any interpretations thereof.

The information in this copy of this publication may not be updated to reflect amendments made to original content. For up-to-date information contact Departments of Transport and National Defence, Canada.

TP 1258E
(07/2023)

T52-4/269-2026E-PDF
ISBN: 978-0-662-74204-3

Department of National Defence, Canada
NDID B-GA-005-000-FP-005

Foreword

This unclassified plan, Emergency Security Control of Air Traffic (ESCAT) Plan, supersedes TP 1258E, dated October 2009.

The threat to our national security and survival, posed by potential aggressor capability, dictates that the effectiveness of the air defence system must not be adversely affected by non-essential air traffic operating in airspace in which either an air battle or contingency operation is being conducted or is imminent. In addition, provisions have to be made to expedite the handling of aircraft movements that support national contingency plans.

The ESCAT Plan has been developed to outline the roles, responsibilities and procedures for Transport Canada, NAV CANADA and Department of National Defence authorities to regulate the movement of friendly, non-tactical aircraft; facilitate the identification, tracking, and interception of, potentially or actually, hostile aircraft; and ensure the preservation of civil and military aircraft for employment in national survival operations. Rules pertaining to the Plan are contained in the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) and are reproduced in appropriate military flying orders.

List of Abbreviations

1 Cdn Air Div

1 Canadian Air Division

AA

Aeronautics Act

ACC

Area Control Centre

ADIZ

Air Defence Identification Zone

ADM

Assistant Deputy Minister

AIM

Aeronautical Information Manual

ALTRV

Altitude Reservation

AMIS

Aircraft Movement Information Service

ANS

Air Navigation Services

ARTCC

Air Route Traffic Control Centre

ATC

Air Traffic Control

ATM Coord

Air Traffic Management Coordination Office

ATS

Air Traffic Services

AVOPS

Transport Canada Aviation Operations Centre

C2

Command and Control

CADS

Canadian Air Defence Sector

CANR

Canadian NORAD Region

CAOC

Combined Air Operations Centre

CARs

Canadian Aviation Regulations

CDRNORAD

Commander, North American Aerospace Defense Command

CDA

Canadian Domestic Airspace

CDS

Chief of the Defence Staff

CFICC

Canadian Forces Integrated Command Centre

CFS

Canadian Flight Supplement

CJOC

Canadian Joint Operations Command

Comd

Commander

Comd RCAF

Commander, Royal Canadian Air Force

CONPLAN

Concept Plan

CNOP

Canadian NOTAM Operating Procedures

CSN

Canadian Switching Network

DCDRNORAD

Deputy Commander, North American Aerospace Defense Command

DND

Department of National Defence

DoD

Department of Defence (United States)

DOS SJS

Director of Staff, Strategic Joint Staff

DVFR

Defence Visual Flight Rules

EATPL

Emergency Air Traffic Priority List

ESCAT

Emergency Security Control of Air Traffic

EWO

Emergency War Orders

EZ

Exclusion Zone

FAA

Federal Aviation Administration (United States)

FIC

Flight Information Centre

FIR

Flight Information Region

FSS

Flight Service Station

IFR

Instrument Flight Rules

MACCO

Manager, ACC Operations

MND

Minister of National Defence

MOT

Minister of Transport

NAV CANADA NOC

NAV CANADA National Operations Centre

NORAD

North American Aerospace Defense Command

NOTAM

Notice to Airmen

ONE

Operation Noble Eagle

ROA

Restricted Operations Area

SAR

Search and Rescue

SCA

Security Control Authorization

SJS

Strategic Joint Staff

SODO

Senior Operations Duty Officer

SSO ACR

Senior Staff Officer Aerospace Capabilities & Readiness

TC

Transport Canada

TOI

Track of Interest

USSTRATCOM

United States Strategic Command

VCDS

Vice Chief of the Defence Staff

VFR

Visual Flight Rules

Explanation of Terms

Air Corridor – A restricted air route of travel specified for use by friendly aircraft

Air Defence – All defensive measures designed to destroy attacking enemy aircraft or missiles in the earth's envelope of atmosphere, or to nullify or reduce the effectiveness of such an attack.

Air Defence Area – Airspace of defined dimensions, designated by the appropriate agency, within which the ready control of airborne vehicles is required in the interest of national security.

Air Defence Emergency – An emergency condition, declared by the appropriate military authority, that exists when an attack upon Canada, the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii or other U.S. territories and possessions, by hostile aircraft or missiles is considered probable, is imminent, or is taking place.

Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ) – Airspace of defined dimensions, in accordance with Transport Canada TP1820 Designated Airspace Handbook, within which the ready identification, location, and control of airborne vehicles are required.

Air Defence Warning – Progressive warning condition, declared by the appropriate military authority, in response to a national or North American threat.

Air Traffic Management Coordination Office (ATM Coord) – Military liaison personnel from the Royal Canadian Air Force who are located within NAV CANADA Headquarters in Ottawa, and who are responsible for coordinating airspace/air traffic control issues, on behalf of the Comd RCAF and Comd 1 Cdn Air Div/CANR, with NAV CANADA, TC, and Headquarters NORAD. During ESCAT implementation, ATM Coord staff will provide immediate augmentation to AVOPS and the NAV CANADA NOC in order to ensure these organisations are provided effective liaison and coordination with DND operations centres.

Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) – A compilation of regulatory requirements designed to enhance safety and the competitiveness of the Canadian aviation industry. They correspond to the broad areas of aviation which the Transport Canada Civil Aviation Directorate is mandated to regulate (e.g. personnel licensing, airworthiness, commercial air services, etc.).

Canadian NORAD Region (CANR) Director of Operations – Senior Officer in charge of daily operations in CANR.

Canadian Forces Integrated Command Centre (CFICC) – A secure 24/7 command and control facility through which, the Comd CJOC, on behalf of the CDS, monitors and provides operational and strategic-level situational awareness and C2 capability, enables strategic-level training activities and facilitates and supports Canadian decision-making.

Canadian Joint Operations Command (CJOC) – CJOC anticipates and conducts Canadian Armed Forces’ operations other than those operations conducted solely by NORAD or specified operations conducted by Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (CANSOFCOM). CJOC/Continental is responsible for the conduct of all domestic operations – routine and contingency – and will be the national operational authority for the defence of Canada and North America.

Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) – Responsible for the command, control and administration of the Canadian Armed Forces and military strategy, plans and requirements. The CDS is the senior military advisor to the Government as a whole.

Combined Air Operations Centre (CAOC) – Secure 24/7 C2 facility through which, the Comd 1 Cdn Air Div/CANR, on behalf of the CDRNORAD as well as the Comd RCAF and CDS respectively, monitors and directs tactical and strategic-level operations and tactical and strategic-level training activities.

Commander Canadian Air Defence Sector (CADS) – The operational commander of CADS who reports to the Comd CANR and is responsible for the effective employment of air defence forces within CDA. This airspace excludes foreign airspace for which control responsibility has been delegated to a Canadian ACC, but includes Canadian airspace for which control responsibility has been delegated to the FAA.

Commander CANR – The operational commander of CANR who reports to the CDRNORAD and is responsible for the effective employment of air defence forces within Canadian airspace.

Commander Royal Canadian Air Force (Comd RCAF) – As the senior Air Force officer in the Canadian military, the Comd RCAF acts as an advisor to the CDS on strategic air force issues. He is also responsible for training, generating, and maintaining combat capable, multi-purpose air forces to meet Canada's defence objectives.

Contingency Operations – Military operations resulting from a situation that threatens hemispheric and/or national security interests.

DD Priority – NOTAM message priority indicating exceptional circumstances and justified by the requirement and special handling in accordance with the International Civil Aviation Organization and as detailed in Canadian NOTAM Operating Procedures (CNOP).

Defence Visual Flight Rules (DVFR) – Rules applicable to flights within an ADIZ conducted under VFR. When ESCAT has been implemented, the rules are applicable to all Canadian airspace.

Dispersal – Relocation of airborne defence forces for the purpose of increasing survivability.

Diversion – A change made in a prescribed route or destination for operational or tactical reasons.

Emergency Air Traffic Priority List (EATPL) – A list comprising nine priorities designed to control the volume of air traffic when ESCAT has been implemented.

Exclusion Zone (EZ) – Airspace of defined dimensions for the exclusive use of aircraft operating under the authority of the MND for the purpose of conducting air surveillance and interdiction.

Flight Information Region (FIR) – An area of defined dimensions extending upwards from the surface of the earth, within which flight information service and alerting service are provided.

NAV CANADA – Canada’s national provider of civil air navigation services, providing air traffic control, flight information, weather briefings, airport advisory services, and electronic aids to navigation.

NAV CANADA National Operations Centre (NAV CANADA NOC) – NAV CANADA's focal point for operations, including emergency activities. Responsible crisis centre for coordinating with company facilities, including all ACCs, towers, FICs and FSSs.

North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) – A United States and Canada bi-national military command responsible for aerospace warning, aerospace control, and maritime warning for North America.

NORAD Region – A geographical subdivision of the NORAD areas of responsibility.

NOTAM – Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) is a notice distributed by means of telecommunication containing information concerning the establishment, condition or change in any aeronautical facility, service, procedure or hazard, the timely knowledge of which is essential to personnel concerned with flight operations (reference DND Flight Information Publication GPH204A Flight Planning and Procedures, Canada and the North Atlantic and/or the NAV CANADA Canadian NOTAM Operating Procedures (CNOP).

Operation Noble Eagle (ONE) – An ongoing Air Defence mission to protect Canada and the continental United States from airborne aggression from inside and outside our respective borders.

Restricted Operations Area (ROA) – A stationary ALTRV for aircraft operating under the authority of the MND.

Security Control Authorization (SCA) – Military authorization for an aircraft to take off when ESCAT has been implemented. This authorization is separate and distinct from the EATPL process; it is not based on the EATPL priority.

Senior Staff Officer Aerospace Capabilities and Readiness (SSO ACR) – The 1 Cdn Air Div/CANR officer responsible for ensuring that safe and timely aerospace control services are provided within Canada and abroad in support of Air Force operations.

Senior Operations Duty Officer (SODO) – A senior officer on call at CANR Headquarters. The SODO is responsible for the initial response to air events in CANR.

Strategic Joint Staff (SJS) – Provides strategic level military analysis and decision support to the CDS in his role as the principal military advisor to the Government of Canada and enables the CDS to effect strategic command.

Tactical Air Traffic – Military flights engaged in operational missions against the enemy; flights engaged in immediate deployment for a combat mission; flights engaged in intercepting non-compliant air traffic; and planned combat and logistical support flights contained in emergency war plans.

Track of Interest (TOI) – An aircraft designated by NORAD/CANR that may present a threat to Canada.

Transport Canada (TC) – The regulatory body that implements, through NAV CANADA, the restricted airspace in support of ESCAT.

Transport Canada Aviation Operations Center (AVOPS) – The Transport Canada Civil Aviation focal point for occurrence reporting and focal point for contingency planning, exercises, and training.

Chapter 1 - ESCAT Plan

1.1 Purpose

1.1.1 The purpose of this plan is to define federal responsibilities and authorities between DND and TC, highlight NAV CANADA responsibilities as defined in SIR (Scramble, Intercept and Recovery) Agreement, define procedures, and instructions for the security control of civil and military air traffic in order to provide effective use of airspace under various emergency conditions.

1.2 Authority

1.2.1 Aeronautics Act.

1.2.2 Section 601.18 of the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs).

1.2.3 Section 801.10 of the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs).

1.2.4 Agreement Between the Government of Canada and the Government of the United States of America on the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD Agreement).

1.3 Scope

1.3.1 noting that the MOT has authority with respect to any matter relating to aeronautics not falling under the authority of the MND given that paragraph (a) of the definition of “Minister” in subsection 3(1) of the AAprovides that “Minister”, subject to paragraph (b) of the definition, means the MOT or such other Minister that is designated by the Governor in Council for purposes of the AA, and that paragraph (b) of the definition provides that “Minister” means the MND – or, under the direction of the MND, the CDS - with respect to any matter relating to defence, including any matter relating to any of the following:

• (1) Military personnel, a military aeronautical product, a military aerodrome or military equipment of Canada or a foreign state, or a military facility of Canada or a foreign state relating to aeronautics, and

• (2) A service relating to aeronautics provided by such personnel, by means of such an aeronautical product or such equipment or at such an aerodrome or facility;

  and further noting that, pursuant to subsection 4.2(1) of the AA,the MOT and the MND are responsible for the development and regulation of aeronautics and the supervision of all matters connected with aeronautics within their respective jurisdictions and, in the discharge of those responsibilities, TC and DND and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), may cooperate with one another and assist one another as required in providing services and discharging their responsibilities under their respective jurisdictions;

  and recognizing that, when the MOT is actingwithin the MOT’s jurisdiction under the AA,and the MOT is of the opinion that there is an immediate threat to aviation security or to any aircraft or aerodrome or other aviation authority facility, or to the safety of the public, passengers or crew members, the MOT may direct any person to do, or refrain from doing, anything that in the opinion of the MOT it is necessary to do or refrain from doing in order to respond to the threat, including directions respecting the diversion of aircraft to alternate landing sites and the movement of aircraft or persons at aerodromes or other aviation facilities;

  and mindful that, under the NORAD Agreement, the Government of Canada has given the responsibility to CDRNORAD, communicating to the Government of Canada through the CDS, to carry out the missions of NORAD within the Canadian Region to provide: aerospace warning for North America; aerospace control for North America; and maritime warning for North America;

  and recognizing that, under Section 801.10 CARs, upon notification by the MND of the implementation of this ESCAT Plan, NAV CANADA is required to ensure that air traffic services are provided to aircraft in accordance with the contents of the plan;

  and desiring to ensure these respective responsibilities are met in various emergencies; and

  the MOT and the MND have agreed as follows:

  That this ESCAT plan describes the joint actions to be taken by appropriate military authorities, TC, and NAV CANADA, in the interest of national security, to control civil and military aircraft operating in CDA as defined by Transport Canada TP1820 Designated Airspace Handbook. This plan excludes foreign airspace for which control responsibility has been delegated to a Canadian ACC, but includes Canadian airspace for which control responsibility has been delegated to the FAA.

1.4 Description

1.4.1 This ESCAT plan provides guidelines for identifying and controlling air traffic within a specified air defence area. This will enhance the use of airspace for defence and defence-supported activities and allow the use of airspace by civil aircraft consistent with air safety. The plan is intended to meet three types of situations:

• (1) When an Air Defence Emergency or Air Defence Warning, as defined in the NORAD Instruction 10-4, has been declared, designated military authorities, as set out at 1.5.1 will authorize the implementation of ESCAT;
• (2) During a contingency operation or asymmetric attack that, in the opinion of a designated military authority as set out at 1.5.1., requires ESCAT implementation; or
• (3) At all other times when designated military authorities as set out at 1.5.1, through coordination with NAV CANADA and TC, request TC to authorize airspace restrictions to the extent necessary to control air traffic operations in airspace that is critical to the conduct of air defence operations.

1.5 Implementation

1.5.1 Military Authorities: The following personnel are designated as the appropriate military authorities for the implementation of ESCAT in accordance with the guidelines stipulated in paragraph 1.5.2:

• (1) CDS;
• (2) CDRNORAD / DCDRNORAD or delegate;
• (3) Comd CANR / Deputy Comd CANR; or
• (4) Comd CADS.

1.5.2 Conditions for Implementation:

• (1) Air Defence Emergency within Canada / United States area: When an emergency has resulted in the declaration of an Air Defence Emergency as set out in the NORAD Instruction 10-4, ESCAT will be implemented automatically and remain in effect for the duration of the Air Defence Emergency.
• (2) Air Defence Warning Within CANR or adjacent region: When CANR or an adjacent region or sector has declared an Air Defence Warning as set out in the NORAD Instruction 10-4, but an Air Defence Emergency has not been declared, then the Comd CANR may direct the implementation of ESCAT. If the situation allows, CDRNORAD should be consulted prior to directing implementation. The Comd CADS has this authority only in the event that CADS has assumed control of the region under succession of command responsibility.
• (3) Air Defence Emergency outside Canada / United States: When an Air Defence Emergency has been declared outside the Canadian and United States area as set out in NORAD Instruction 10-4, the CDRNORAD or the DCDRNORAD may implement ESCAT when deemed necessary.
• (4) Other conditions for NORAD: In all other conditions deemed necessary, CDRNORAD shall seek authorization to implement ESCAT through the CDS to the MND who will consult with the Governor-in-Council.
• (5) Other conditions for Canada: When other conditions exist that threaten or affect vital continental Canadian security or defence interests but do not warrant declaration of an Air Defence Emergency or Air Defence Warning, yet the circumstances require ESCAT, then the CDS, actingthrough the MND, will seek Governor-in-Council approval for implementation.

1.5.3 ESCAT Phases: ESCAT may be executed in phases to facilitate a smooth transition from normal peacetime air traffic identification and control procedures to the more restrictive identification and control procedures that accompany the full implementation of ESCAT. Phase One is considered the preparatory stage of implementation and may be directed by the CDS at any time. Phase Two is considered to be full implementation of the plan and requires the requisite authority, as detailed in paragraph 1.5.2—Conditions for Implementation. When ESCAT has been implemented, the movement of civil and military aircraft is governed by the implementation of an EATPL and/or a SCA number:

• (1) Phase One – Requires all aircraft in designated areas to file IFR / DVFR flight plans in accordance with CAR 602.75(1), CAR 602.145, CAR 602.146, this plan, and the established procedures detailed in the GPH205 CFS and/or TP 14371 AIM Canada.
• (2) Phase Two – The Comd CANR restricts aircraft movement within designated areas through implementation of the EATPL and SCA process.

1.5.4 ESCAT zones: For the purpose of implementing ESCAT, Canadian airspace has been divided into seven zones. Once ESCAT has been authorized, the Comd CANR may implement ESCAT by activating one or more zones or portions of zones. These zones are depicted in Annex A.

1.5.5 Less than ESCAT conditions - Exclusion Zones (EZ) and Restricted Operations Areas (ROA): If conditions exist that threaten national security but do not warrant the declaration of an Air Defence Warning or an Air Defence Emergency, then the appropriate military commanders shall consider the effectiveness of EZs and ROAs before implementing ESCAT. As such, the CDS or Comd CANR (through coordination with TC and NAV CANADA), may impose airspace restrictions around major cities and vital points to facilitate military operations. Procedures for the implementation of EZs and ROAs are delineated in the DND/TC/NAV CANADA A-71 ROA/ALTRV Arrangement.

1.6 Amplifying Information

1.6.1 Interference with normal air traffic will be minimized, consistent with the requirements of the air defence system.

1.6.2 Military operations vital to national defence shall be given priority over other military and civil aircraft. These operations include civil air carrier flights under mission control of the military, and foreign flag carrier flights operating in support of national defence.

1.6.3 Direct communications are authorized between appropriate agencies and units for the purpose of coordinating and implementing the procedures in this plan.

1.6.4 To ensure that implementation actions can be taken expeditiously, ESCAT tests shall be conducted in accordance with Annex C of this plan.

1.7 Responsibilities

1.7.1 The CDS shall:

• (1) Recommend amendments to this plan to the MND to ensure it is adequate to meet changing requirements;
• (2) Maintain continuous liaison, through the Comd RCAF with the ADM, Safety and Security, TC, and NAV CANADA, with regard to all pertinent aspects of this plan;
• (3) Establish the military requirements for ESCAT under contingency operations; and
• (4) Direct the implementation and termination of ESCAT to the CDRNORAD or Comd CANR, as appropriate.

1.7.2 The CDRNORAD shall:

• (1) Recommend amendments to this plan to the Comd RCAF to ensure it is adequate to meet changing requirements;
• (2) Maintain continuous liaison, through the Comd RCAF, with the ADM, Safety and Security, TC, and NAV CANADA, with regard to all pertinent aspects of this plan;
• (3) Establish the military requirements for ESCAT; and
• (4) Direct the implementation and termination of ESCAT, through the Comd CANR, after consultation with the CDS.

1.7.3 The ADM, Safety and Security, Transport Canada, shall:

• (1) Ensure coordination with the CDRNORAD, through the Comd RCAF, regarding all pertinent aspects of this plan;
• (2) Maintain continuous liaison, through the Comd RCAF and NAV CANADA, with regard to all pertinent aspects of this plan;
• (3) Promulgate the necessary CARs to fulfill the requirements of this plan; and
• (4) Administer ESCAT in accordance with the established requirements.

1.7.4 The Comd CANR, via the 1 Cdn Air Div/CANR CAOC shall:

• (1) Develop procedures for the testing, implementation and termination of ESCAT, in conjunction with TC CACEP (Civil Aviation Contingency and Emergency Planning) and NAV CANADA;
• (2) Maintain coordination with the ADM, Safety and Security, TC, NAV CANADA, and commanders of adjacent NORAD Regions, in regards to all pertinent aspects of this plan; and
• (3) Direct the implementation of ESCAT or coordinate with TC AVOPS and NAV CANADA to impose airspace restrictions to the degree necessary to meet the tactical situation, when authorized to do so by this plan.

1.7.5 CANR CAOC shall:

• (1) Notify the CFICC if implementing ESCAT and advise of the circumstances under which ESCAT has been ordered. Also, provide status as deemed necessary, including termination of ESCAT;
• (2) Once ESCAT has been implemented, contact the NAV CANADA NOC and the AVOPS with any requirements for airspace restrictions. Liaise directly with AVOPS and NAV CANADA NOC for execution of the plan;
• (3) Update AVOPS whenever changes are directed to the EATPL authorization in any of the zones, or if there are any required revisions to airspace restrictions;
• (4) Provide AVOPS with a daily summary of the current EATPL in effect in each of the zones; and
• (5) Notify ATM Coord of the implementation or termination of ESCAT.

1.7.6 The CFICC, upon direction from either the CDS or the Comd CANR, in the event ESCAT has been implemented or terminated shall:

• (1) Notify DND/CAF leadership in accordance with MND & CDS CIR (Critical Intelligence Requirements) Directive of the implementation, status, and termination of ESCAT.

1.7.7 TC, in conjunction with NAV CANADA, shall:

• (1) Coordinate with the Comd CANR in developing detailed procedures and plans for the testing, implementation, and termination of ESCAT; and

• (2) Implement airspace restrictions as may be required in support of ESCAT operations, and issue the related NOTAMs through NAV CANADA’s International NOTAM Office.

  Note: All NOTAMs pertaining to ESCAT shall be "DD" priority in accordance with CNOP.

1.7.8 The NAV CANADA NOC shall:

• (1) Notify the appropriate ACCs upon notification from CANR that ESCAT has been implemented or terminated;
• (2) Notify the appropriate ACCs to carry out the directed actions upon direction from the Comd CANR that a phase of ESCAT has been implemented; and
• (3) Notify the Comd CANR when directed actions have been completed.

1.7.9 ATM Coord, in conjunction with SSO ACR, shall:

• (1) Advise the Comd CANR on all matters pertaining to NAV CANADA facilities and services, relating to the implementation of ESCAT;
• (2) Assist in the development and coordination of procedures between appropriate agencies on matters concerning the implementation and testing of the ESCAT plan, as required; and
• (3) Coordinate the staffing of temporary military positions at TC and the NAV CANADA NOC during ESCAT implementation, in order to ensure these organizations are provided effective liaison and coordination with DND operations centres.

1.7.10 The NAV CANADA ACC Shift Managers, upon notification that ESCAT has been implemented, shall immediately:

• (1) Notify all affected ATS units within their respective areas of responsibility to implement ESCAT, as directed;
• (2) Issue instructions to control air traffic, as specified by the appropriate authority;
• (3) Direct appropriate ATS units to limit and/or prohibit departures and/or arrivals at specified airports, or within specified areas;
• (4) Notify the NAV CANADA NOC when ESCAT action has been implemented or terminated, to the degree specified;
• (5) Originate, issue, amend or relay such other instructions and information as may be necessary to meet ESCAT requirements, upon direction by the NAV CANADA NOC;
• (6) Advise the adjacent ACCs and ARTCCs of the current status of ESCAT in their area of responsibility; and
• (7) Notify all affected units and agencies when advised that ESCAT is terminated.

1.7.11 NAV CANADA and Military ATS units shall:

• (1) Develop an ESCAT implementation plan specific to their operation in accordance with this plan (Annex B); and
• (2) Implement ESCAT as directed, upon notification from the ACC.

1.8 Communication

1.8.1 The communication to be used to implement, conduct, terminate or test ESCAT will be:

• (1) ATS communication systems;
• (2) CSN; and/or
• (3) Commercial telephone.

1.8.2 Secure communication capability, at the Secret level, should be available for coordination between 1 Cdn Air Div/CANR CAOC, TC, the NAV CANADA NOC and CFICC. Where secure communication is not available, reasonable measures shall be taken to ensure the validity of the call or identity of the caller.

1.9 Review

1.9.1 This plan shall be reviewed by TC, NAV CANADA, Comd RCAF and the Comd 1 Cdn Air Div/CANR at least every two years and shall be amended or re-issued as required. This review shall be coordinated through 1 Cdn Air Div/CANR Headquarters.

1.9.2 All annexes shall indicate an effective date.

1.9.3 Suggestions for changes or inquiries should be forwarded to:

Senior Staff Officer Aerospace Capabilities & Readiness
1 Canadian Air Division HQ
Box 17000 Station Forces
Winnipeg MB R3J 3Y5

Chapter 2 - Implementation

2.1 Purpose

2.1.1 To direct the coordination procedures necessary to fulfill air defence and ANS requirements for the movement of air traffic once ESCAT has been implemented.

2.2 Notification

2.2.1 Upon direction to implement ESCAT, 1 Cdn Air Div/CANR CAOC shall notify the NAV CANADA NOC, AVOPS and CFICC that ESCAT is being implemented. This call will be made by the CANR SODO or Chief of Combat Operations and may be made through commercial telephone lines or through secure means.

2.3 Coordination

2.3.1 The Comd CANR via the 1 Cdn Air Div/CANR CAOC shall direct the restrictions to be implemented through AVOPS and the NAV CANADA NOC/Duty Manager. Examples of restrictions that may be considered include:

• (1) Defining the affected area;
• (2) Defining routing restrictions on flights entering or operating within the appropriate portions of the affected area;
• (3) Defining restrictions for the volume of air traffic within the affected area, using the EATPLs and SCAs;
• (4) Setting altitude limitations on flight operations in selected areas;
• (5) Setting restrictions on aircraft from selected countries; and/or
• (6) Coordinating with AVOPS and the NAV CANADA NOC, for the revision or removal of airspace restrictions or air traffic movement, as the tactical situation permits.

2.3.2 The 1 Cdn Air Div/CANR CAOC shall inform AVOPS of the current EATPL status. The Comd CANR shall also coordinate with AVOPS to ensure the appropriate NOTAM is issued (samples are provided in Annex D).

2.3.3 The NAV CANADA NOC shall direct the appropriate ACCs to implement ESCAT restrictions as specified by the Comd CANR, AVOPS, and in accordance with published NOTAMs. The NAV CANADA NOC shall advise the 1 Cdn Air Div/CANR CAOC when the restrictions have been implemented, and provide any feedback received from the ACCs.

2.3.4 The ACCs shall take the following actions when directed to implement ESCAT:

• (1) Impose restrictions on air traffic, as directed;
• (2) Disseminate ESCAT implementation instructions in accordance with Annex B ESCAT Implementation Procedures to the appropriate NAV CANADA and military ATS units. The NAV CANADA NOC will advise adjacent ATC facilities; and
• (3) Provide the NAV CANADA NOC with feedback on any impact of the restrictions.

2.3.5 All NAV CANADA and Military ATS units shall:

• (1) Maintain current information on the status of restrictions imposed on air traffic;
• (2) Process flight plans in accordance with the current EATPL, including flights that have been granted an SCA; and
• (3) Disseminate instructions and restrictions to air traffic, as directed by the ACCs.

2.3.6 All pilots-in-command of aircraft entering and operating within CDA or the ADIZ, when notified by an ATC unit that ESCAT is in effect (in accordance with CAR 602.146) shall:

• (1) Obtain approval for the flight from the appropriate ATC unit, FSS or FIC before takeoff;
• (2) Comply with any instruction to land or change course or altitude that is received from the appropriate ATC unit, FSS or FIC; and
• (3) Provide the appropriate ATC unit, FSS or FIC with position reports:
  • (a) when operating within controlled airspace, as required pursuant to CAR 602.125; and
  • (b) when operating outside controlled airspace, at least every 30 minutes.

2.3.7 AVOPS shall coordinate the issuance of NOTAMs and restrictions through NAV CANADA’s International NOTAM Office, as required.

Note: All NOTAMs pertaining to ESCAT shall be "DD" priority.

2.4. Application

2.4.1 With the exception of aircraft operating under Canadian Safe Passage routing, for which special coordination has been effected between USSTRATCOM, NORAD, DND, TC, and NAV CANADA, conflicts of priority in the movement of tactical air traffic shall be resolved by the Comd CANR.

2.4.2 The following applies to the movement of all air traffic:

• (1) Air traffic within priorities 1 and 2 of the EATPL will not be delayed, diverted, or rerouted without the approval of the Comd CANR;
• (2) Air traffic, other than that within priorities 1 and 2 of the EATPL, may be delayed, diverted, or rerouted by the Comd CANR, as required;
• (3) SAR aircraft may be expedited on their missions without requiring Comd CANR approval. Such aircraft may be diverted to avoid battle areas, or takeoff may be delayed in order to prevent saturation of airspace; and
• (4) Air traffic shall file IFR flight plans and comply with IFR procedures, regardless of weather. DVFR flights may be permitted in specified zones at the discretion of the Comd CANR.

Note: Compliance with approved flight plan routings and mandatory position reports is of the utmost importance in confirming identification and ensuring the effectiveness of the ESCAT plan. The provisions specified in the CARs and DND GPH 204 Flight Planning and Procedures and GPH205 CFS for IFR and DVFR flights shall be strictly adhered to and will be rigidly enforced. 

Chapter 3 - Emergency Air Traffic Priority List

3.1 Purpose

3.1.1 To establish a process for the movement of air traffic when ESCAT has been implemented, and to provide policy guidance for the practical application of the system. The EATPL shall be the primary means of controlling the volume of air traffic. The SCA process will be used as a supplement to the EATPL.

3.2 Policy

3.2.1. The use of the EATPL shall commence upon implementation of ESCAT Phase Two. Precedence shall be from priority one to priority nine. There is no precedence within each priority.

3.3 Priorities

3.3.1 Priority One

• (1) Canadian and NORAD aircraft engaged in active defence missions, including anti-submarine aircraft, interceptors, air refuelling tankers, Search and Rescue aircraft, electronic intelligence aircraft, signals intelligence aircraft, communications and network extension aircraft, and airborne early-warning and control aircraft;
• (2) Canadian and approved allied aircraft on military offensive missions other than defence operations;
• (3) Canadian and approved allied airborne command element aircraft that provide backup to command and control systems for the combat forces; and
• (4) Aircraft transporting the Prime Minister of Canada, the President of the United States, their respective cabinet or staff members essential to national security, and other members, as approved or designated by the MND or the CDS. Depending on the nature of the emergency, heads of state of other allied countries may also be designated by the same means.

3.3.2 Priority Two

• (1) Canadian and approved allied air forces being deployed for, or in direct support of, combat operations, including any civil augmentation aircraft that they may be used for those purposes;
• (2) Approved allied aircraft in direct and immediate support of EWO;
• (3) SAR aircraft operating in support of military activities;
• (4) Aircraft operating in direct and immediate support of special operations missions; and
• (5) Aircraft in direct support of air security operations, for example, providing security for nuclear power plants, dams, chemical plants, and other areas identified as high value targets.

3.3.3 Priority Three

• (1) Canadian and approved allied air forces being deployed in support of combat operations;
• (2) Canadian and approved allied aircraft in direct support of immediate combat operations;
• (3) SAR aircraft not included in priority two; and
• (4) Flight inspection aircraft flights in connection with emergency restoration of airway and airport facilities, in support of immediate combat operations.

3.3.4 Priority Four

• (1) Dispersal of Canadian and approved allied tactical military aircraft;
• (2) Dispersal of civil air carrier aircraft supporting Canadian and approved allied military activities;
• (3) Dispersal of TC, FAA, NAV CANADA, DND, and approved foreign flight inspection aircraft;
• (4) Dispersal of foreign civil air carrier aircraft in Canada and/or the US in accordance with specific international agreements;
• (5) Flight inspection activity in connection with airway and airport facilities;
• (6) Military tactical pilot currency or proficiency in support of air defence/air security;
• (7) Military tactical aircraft post-maintenance test flights; and
• (8) Other Canadian or US state aircraft post maintenance check flights in support of air security.

3.3.5 Priority Five

• (1) The air transport of Canadian and allied military commanders, their representatives, and DND and DoD sponsored key civilian personnel who are of the utmost importance to national security, or who will have an immediate effect upon combat operations of the Armed Forces;
• (2) Dispersal of non-tactical military aircraft for their protection; and
• (3) Public aircraft assigned to TC, the FAA, and other Canadian and US federal agencies.

3.3.6 Priority Six

• (1) Flight operations in accordance with approved federal or provincial emergency airlift plans, whose immediate missions involve alleviating the effects of disaster, saving human life, air evacuation, restoring essential services, and transporting medical personnel, equipment and supplies pertinent thereto;
• (2) Flight operations in Canada essential to the development, production and delivery of equipment, personnel, materials and supplies essential to the defence effort;
• (3) Canadian and allied flight operations in support of disaster airlift operations;
• (4) Humanitarian and emergency flight, meaning:
  • (a) An air ambulance flight;
  • (b) An aerial firefighting flight;
  • (c) A SAR flight;
  • (d) A flight in support of police or military activities;
  • (e) A flight to or from a location in Canada requiring designated northern or remote services;
  • (f) A flight incidental to any declared international, national, provincial, or local emergency; or
  • (g) Any other flight, or class of flights, declared by the MOT or MND in accordance with the AA to be a humanitarian or emergency flight; and
• (5) Other essential Canadian and approved allied aircraft missions not included in Chapter 3, section 3.3.3.

3.3.7 Priority Seven

• (1) Other military flight operations.

3.3.8 Priority Eight:

• (1) Aircraft unable to comply with one or more of the requirements to squawk an ATC assigned transponder code and/or ADS-B/Mode S requirement, maintain radio contact with ATC or comply with IFR or DVFR flight plan requirements as outlined in applicable flight publications or published NOTAM.

3.3.9 Priority Nine:

• (1) Other flight operations not specified within priorities one through eight.

3.4 Procedures

3.4.1 General

• (1) The EATPL shall be the primary instrument used by the Comd CANR to control the volume of air traffic operating within their area of responsibility when ESCAT has been implemented. Depending on the severity of the situation, the Comd CANR may decide to entertain SCA requests;
• (2) EATPL and SCA approval request procedures will be promulgated by NOTAM;
• (3) The restrictions embodied in the EATPL shall apply to all aircraft, except those in receipt of an SCA;
• (4) The pilot-in-command shall be responsible for determining under which EATPL number the flight will request to operate. The pilot-in-command shall include the EATPL priority number in the "Remarks" section of the flight plan;
• (5) The pilot-in-command operating a flight under a military SCA shall include the SCA approval number in the “Remarks” section of the flight plan;
• (6) The EATPL priority number or SCA number shall be posted on ATS flight strips and passed with flight plan data from one ATS facility to the next, and to the appropriate air defence control facilities;
• (7) Operational test flights will take the priority of the mission for which the aircraft is being tested; and
• (8) Situations may occur that cannot be addressed by the EATPL or an SCA. Aircraft emergencies and inbound international flights that have reached the point of no return are examples of such situations. These incidents must be treated individually through coordination between ATS units and appropriate military agencies, taking into consideration the urgency of the in-flight situation and existing tactical military conditions.

Annex A - Map and Coordinates of ESCAT Zones

Annex A - Map and Coordinates of ESCAT Zones - Text version

Canadian airspace has been divided into seven zones. Once ESCAT has been authorized, the Commander CANR may implement ESCAT by activating one or more zones or portions of zones.

The NAV CANADA Designated Airspace Handbook specifies exact coordinates for each zone. Broadly, they cover the airspace controlled by Canada's main regional Area Control Centres (ACCs):

• Zone 1 (Vancouver): Covers British Columbia and the adjacent Pacific coastal airspace.
• Zone 2 (Edmonton): Encompasses Alberta, the Yukon, parts of the Northwest Territories, and the western Arctic.
• Zone 3 (Winnipeg): Covers Saskatchewan, Manitoba, northwestern Ontario, and portions of the central Arctic.
• Zone 4 (Toronto): Spans southern, central, and northeastern Ontario.
• Zone 5 (Montreal): Encompasses the province of Quebec and the eastern Arctic approach.
• Zone 6 (Moncton): Covers the Maritime provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island).
• Zone 7 (Gander): Controls Newfoundland, Labrador, and the vast oceanic airspace stretching over the western Atlantic

Annex B - ESCAT Implementation Procedures

Activation

1. The NAV CANADA NOC will notify the ACCs that ESCAT has been implemented.
2. The ACCs will notify all appropriate Canadian civil and military ATS units within the boundaries of their domestic FIRs, as well as US civil/military ATS units controlling airspace within the boundaries of Canadian FIRs, as depicted in the Designated Airspace Handbook (TP 1820), that ESCAT has been implemented.
3. Operating positions will take the following actions:

   1. Broadcast the following message on all frequencies:

      “Attention all aircraft—air defence emergency—all aircraft will comply with the procedures for the emergency security control of air traffic. Vfr traffic on this frequency must land at the nearest suitable airfield and file an ifr or dvfr flight plan”;

   2. Wait two (2) minutes and broadcast the message again; and
   3. Wait two (2) minutes and broadcast the message again.

4. Notify the agencies that have been identified in the fan-out procedures that ESCAT has been implemented using the following phraseology:

   “Attention—escat is now in effect”

5. Note: The instructions and restrictions to air traffic will be provided by the ACCs. This information may include:
   1. the affected areas;
   2. routing restrictions on flights entering or operating within the appropriate portions of the affected areas;
   3. restrictions for the volume of air traffic within the affected areas, using the EATPL priorities and SCA numbers;
   4. altitude limitations on flight operations in selected areas; and/or
   5. restrictions on aircraft from selected countries.

Termination

6. The NAV CANADA NOC will notify the ACCs that ESCAT has been terminated.
7. The ACCs will notify all facilities previously advised of the implementation that ESCAT is terminated.
8. Operating positions will take the following actions:

   1. Broadcast the following message on all frequencies:

      “Attention all aircraft—emergency security control of air traffic has been terminated. Routine airspace procedures are now in effect”;

   2. Wait two (2) minutes and broadcast the message again;
   3. Wait two (2) minutes and broadcast the message again;

   4. Relay the message that ESCAT has been terminated to the agencies previously notified, using the following phraseology:

      “Escat is terminated”; and

   5. Upon completion of the above actions, notify the NAV CANADA NOC of time of completion.

Annex C - ESCAT Test Procedures

Foreword

1. This Annex to the ESCAT Plan replaces all previous annexes concerning the testing of ESCAT in Canadian domestic FIRs.

Purpose

2. To specify the procedures that will allow the Comd CANR to determine the time required and assure the capability to notify all agencies/personnel that ESCAT has been implemented.
3. To ensure ESCAT actions can be taken quickly, procedures for the notification of all action echelons shall be tested periodically, but at least annually.

Areas of Responsibility

4. The Comd CANR is responsible for the testing of the ESCAT Plan. Upon direction from the Comd CANR, the CANR CAOC will contact the NAV CANADA NOC and direct the testing of ESCAT. Similarly, the CANR CAOC will notify CFICC and AVOPS of the testing of ESCAT. These calls will be made by the CANR SODO to the respective agencies through either commercial or secure telephone lines. NORAD Headquarters and CADS should also be notified of the test of the ESCAT plan.
5. The ACCs are responsible for applying the ESCAT testing procedures within the boundaries of their domestic FIRs, as depicted in the Designated Airspace Handbook (TP 1820).
6. The NAV CANADA NOC and respective MACCO shall design and maintain a workable communication fan out plan to disseminate ESCAT information.
7. The Comd CANR shall coordinate all ESCAT requirements with adjacent NORAD Region Commanders.

Test Activities

8. The NAV CANADA NOC will notify the ACCs.
9. The ACCs will notify all appropriate Canadian civil and military ATS units within the boundaries of their domestic FIRs, as depicted in the Designated Airspace Handbook (TP 1820).
10. ATS operating positions will take the following actions:

    1. Notify by landline/interphone the agencies identified in the fan-out procedures that there is an ESCAT test in progress, using the following phraseology:

       “attention—this is an escat test. i say again, this is an escat test”;

    2. The air traffic controller/flight service specialist will forward the implementation completion time to the supervisor or unit manager for forwarding to the MACCO (NAV CANADA ACC Manager), who will then forward the completion time to the NAV CANADA NOC; and
    3. The NAV CANADA NOC will forward completion times to the CANR CAOC.
11. Note:
    1. ESCAT may be tested on a national or zonal basis in accordance with the conditions specified in this plan;
    2. Aircraft shall NOT be grounded or diverted; and
    3. There shall be no test radio broadcast, and radio communications shall NOT be interrupted.

Test Termination

12. NAV CANADA’s NOC, ACCs, and all facilities advised of the ESCAT test implementation will consider the test terminated immediately after test implementation notification. Formal test termination notifications will not be issued.

Annex D - ESCAT Sample NOTAM

ESCAT Phase One Implementation

1. Phase One implementation requires all aircraft operating within activated ESCAT Zones 1, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3, 4, 5A, 5B, 6, 7A, and/or 7B to file IFR/DVFR flight plans in accordance with CARs 602.73(1), 602.145 and 602.146.
2. The coordinates for ESCAT zones are listed in the Designated Airspace Handbook (DAH/TP 1820). A map showing ESCAT Zones as depicted in Annex A is in the Canada Flight Supplement (CFS) Section C6—Planning and F18 Emergency.
3. NOTAM shall be issued in English and French where applicable. Refer to the Canadian NOTAM Operating Procedures (CNOP).

ESCAT Phase Two Implementation

4. Aircraft movements are restricted within the activated ESCAT Zones 1, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3, 4, 5A, 5B, 6, 7A, and/or 7B in accordance with the EATPL and/or SCA process (if the Comd CANR has advised that they will entertain SCA requests), as outlined in the ESCAT Plan.
5. Only TC or DND can approve airspace restrictions invoking a specified phase of the ESCAT. The NOTAM will specify the ESCAT phase number, the zones affected, the restrictions in effect, and the expiry time or approximate expiry time. The NOTAM will be issued using priority DD under the appropriate FIRs affected.

Sample NOTAM

H0056/19 NOTAMN
Q) CZUL/QROLT/IV/NBO/W/000/999/5440N06941W999
A) CZUL B) YYMMDDHHMM C) YYMMDDHHMM EST
E) EMERG security CTL of air TFC (ESCAT) phase one has been invoked by the chief of defence staff. ESCAT phase one requires that all FLT within ESCAT zones 5A and 5B file an IFR or defence VFR (DVFR) FLT plan. (REF canada FLT SUP (CFS)).

FR: le chef d’etat-major de la defense a declenche la phase un du CTL de securite d’urgence de la circulation aerienne (ESCAT). en vertu de la phase un du plan ESCAT, tous les ACFT se trouvant dans les zones ESCAT 5A et 5B doivent deposer un plan de vol IFR ou un plan de vol de la defense (DVFR). (REF SUP de vol canada (CFS)). F) SFC G) UNL

F0045/16 NOTAMN [aussi sous G0034/16 et H0056/16]
Q) CZXX/QROLT/IV/NBO/W/000/999/6331N08538W999
A) CZVR CZEG B) YYMMDDHHMM C) YYMMDDHHMM EST
E) EMERG security CTL of air TFC (ESCAT) phase two has been invoked by minister of national defence. pursuant to section 5.1 of the Aeronautics Act, the minister of transport prohibits all FLT within escat zones 1, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3, 4, 5A, 5B, 6, 7A and 7B unless operating under a specific priority within the EMERG air TFC priority list (EATPL). REF to canada FLT SUP(CFS) sections C AND F. air operators required to OPR FLT in the interest of public safety and security that do not qualify under the ABV noted priorities within the EATPL may request a MIL security CTL AUTH (SCA) number. for more info or to request a MIL SCA number CTC canadian norad region at 1-877-992-6853.

FR : le ministre de la defense a declenche la phase deux du CTL de securite d’urgence de la circulation aerienne (ESCAT). en vertu de l’article 5.1 de la loi sur l’aeronautique, le ministre des transports interdit tous les vols dans les zones ESCAT 1, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3, 4, 5A, 5B, 6, 7A ET 7B a moins que ces ACFT evoluent grace a une priorite specifique accordee dans le cadre de la liste des priorites de circulation aerienne en situation d’urgence (LPCASU). SE REFERER AUX SECTIONS C ET F DU CFS. LES OPR TENUS D’EFFECTUER DES VOLS POUR DES QUESTIONS DE SECURITE ET DE SURETE DU PUBLIC QUI NE peuvent pretendre a une des priorites mentionnees ci-dessus dans le cadre de la LPCASU peuvent demander a beneficier d’un numero d’auth de CTL de securite (ACS) MIL. pour plus d’info ou pour demander un numero D’ACS MIL CTC 1-877-992-6853. F) SFC G) UNL