EAA Opposes Overreaching Transport Canada Aerodrome Policy

March 26, 2015 - EAA is urging its Canadian members to submit comments opposing a Transport Canada (TC) Notice of Proposed Amendment that would place onerous restrictions on modification or new development of aerodromes. The proposal, entitled “Responsible Aerodrome Development,” would require a lengthy public notification process prior to construction or alteration of even the smallest private airstrip.

Among other requirements, prospective developers - including those building personal-use airstrips on private lands - would be required to submit extensive paperwork to several government agencies, run notification in local newspapers, posts signs around the construction site, and conduct an in-person information and comment session with the local community. In addition to throwing up unreasonable roadblocks to the construction of small aerodromes, TC’s own estimates place the cost for this requirement at $6,000, and it could reach as high as $15,000.

EAA Canadian Council member Edward Lubitz outlines the NPA in more detail and provides a guide for drafting and submitting comments. EAA will be voicing its strong objection to this proposal and urges its members in Canada to do the same. The deadline for submitting comments is April 8, 2015.