A deficiency in air traffic controllers in Canada is causing periodic closures of airport towers in Kelowna, B.C., and Winnipeg when the lone controller on duty takes a break, according to a memo sent to Air Canada pilots. The memo, dated October 14, urged pilots to avoid these airports during severe staff shortages that lead to tower closures. The frequency of these closures is unknown, and airport representatives have not yet responded to inquiries.
Nav Canada, the organization overseeing the country’s civil air navigation system, has notified airlines about anticipated air traffic control shortages in Winnipeg and Kelowna, which could potentially extend to other airports. Nav Canada mentioned that the closures in Winnipeg and Kelowna are planned during low-traffic times to minimize disruptions and ensure safety and well-being of employees. However, specific details regarding the standard staffing levels at these towers were not provided.
These closures are part of a larger trend of air traffic controller shortages in North America, resulting in possible flight delays and increased costs for airlines. Flights in Canada affected by these closures may require extra fuel to account for potential holding patterns or diversions due to staffing shortages. In the United States, the issue of air traffic control staffing is exacerbated by a government shutdown, causing travel delays at various airports, as reported by the Federal Aviation Administration this week.
Nick von Schoenberg, president of the Canadian Air Traffic Control Association (CATCA), stated that the airport closures in Canada, beyond Winnipeg and Kelowna, are aimed at allowing controllers to take fatigue-related breaks. He highlighted that these closures indicate a lack of system resilience due to staffing difficulties.
Tim Perry, president of the Air Line Pilots Association in Canada representing Air Canada pilots, emphasized the need to address the ongoing instability caused by staff shortages. Perry noted that air traffic controller shortages persist, leading to delays at multiple Canadian airports.