A shortage of air traffic controllers in Canada has led to occasional 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. Air Canada advised its pilots to avoid these airports during severe staff shortages that result in tower closures, although the frequency of these closures is not clear. Nav Canada, the entity overseeing the nation’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 planned during low traffic periods to minimize disruptions and ensure safety and well-being of employees. The organization did not disclose the regular staffing levels at these towers. The closures reflect the ongoing shortage of air traffic controllers in North America, leading to potential flight delays and increased costs for airlines. Flights in Canada may require extra fuel due to holding patterns or diversions caused by controller staffing shortages.
In the United States, air traffic control staffing has been a concern, especially during government shutdowns, causing delays at various airports. The president of the Canadian Air Traffic Control Association (CATCA) mentioned that the airport closures in Canada are not limited to Winnipeg and Kelowna but are aimed at providing necessary breaks for fatigued controllers and highlight the system’s lack of resilience due to staffing issues.
The president of the Air Line Pilots Association in Canada emphasized the importance of addressing the lack of stability resulting from air traffic controller shortages, which continue to cause delays at airports nationwide.