Air-Traffic Control Staffing Shortages Cause Flight Delays and Cancellations at Canada’s Largest Airports

Flight disruptions hit Canada’s major airports in Toronto and Vancouver over the weekend as air-traffic control staffing shortages led to hundreds of flight delays and nearly 100 cancellations. The unexpected absences of air-traffic controllers during the peak travel season left passengers and airlines frustrated.

Toronto Pearson International Airport experienced 1,035 delays and 83 cancellations, while Vancouver International Airport faced 204 delays and 15 cancellations on Saturday and Sunday, according to FlightAware, a flight-tracking website. Both airports attributed the disruptions to Nav Canada, the agency responsible for air traffic control in Canada.

Nav Canada spokesperson Maryam Amini acknowledged the “unplanned absences” of air-traffic controllers, which resulted in reduced capacity and longer wait times for flights. The agency is actively working to reinforce its workforce and ensure the safety and efficiency of air navigation services.

“Our priority at Nav Canada is to have sufficient staff to deliver safe and efficient air navigation services,” Amini stated. “Our front-line air traffic services training programs are currently operating at full capacity.”

The exact reasons for the absences were not disclosed, although media reports suggested they might be linked to COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirements. Nav Canada has mandated that all employees be fully vaccinated by November 30, with potential termination for non-compliance.

The flight disruptions had a ripple effect across other airports in Canada and impacted flights to and from the United States. Passengers reported missed connections and endured prolonged delays on the tarmac or in terminals.

Air Canada, the country’s largest airline, is collaborating with Nav Canada and other stakeholders to mitigate the impact on customers. The airline advised passengers to check their flight status prior to heading to the airport and offered an online rebooking tool for necessary changes.

WestJet, another major Canadian carrier, also experienced the constraints caused by Nav Canada and expressed apologies for any inconvenience caused. The airline provided flexible change and cancellation options for affected passengers.

Nav Canada is a private, non-profit corporation responsible for providing air navigation services throughout Canada. With approximately 2,000 air-traffic controllers managing over 12 million aircraft movements annually, the organization plays a crucial role in ensuring safe and efficient air travel.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, theglobeandmail.com, msn.com