A shortage of air traffic controllers in Canada has led to occasional closures of airport towers in Kelowna, B.C., and Winnipeg when the sole controller on duty takes a break, according to a memo addressed to Air Canada pilots. Air Canada has advised its pilots to steer clear of these two airports during periods of severe staff shortages that result in tower closures.
The frequency of airport closures due to staffing shortages at these locations remains unclear as representatives of the airports have not responded to requests for comments. Nav Canada, the entity responsible for managing the country’s civil air navigation system, has informed airlines about anticipated air traffic control shortages at Winnipeg and Kelowna, with the possibility of extending to other airports.
Nav Canada stated that the closures at Winnipeg and Kelowna are strategically planned for low-traffic times to minimize disruptions and ensure operational safety and employee well-being. Specific details regarding standard staffing levels at these towers were not disclosed.
These closures are the latest examples of a broader shortage of air traffic controllers in North America, impacting flight schedules and increasing costs for airlines. Flights affected in Canada may require extra fuel due to potential delays or diversions caused by air traffic control staffing shortages.
In the United States, air traffic control staffing concerns have also arisen, with the Federal Aviation Administration attributing travel delays at multiple airports to the issue. Nick von Schoenberg, president of CATCA, the union representing Canadian controllers, highlighted that the airport closures aim to address fatigue-related concerns among controllers and underscore the system’s lack of resilience amid staffing challenges.
Tim Perry, president of the Air Line Pilots Association in Canada, emphasized the urgency of resolving the instability caused by ongoing shortages in air traffic controllers. He stressed the persistent delays faced by Air Canada pilots at various airports across the country due to these staffing challenges.