Firefighters at several Canadian airports are advocating for improvement to regulations on rescue and firefighting services.
Gaps in regulation can increase risk for travelers – on what may be already their worst day. Canadians expect our regulations to meet the international standard when it comes to air safety.
Airport firefighters only want the best safety standard for travelers–especially in emergencies. Airports will meet whatever standard is required by Canadian regulations. But our international partners expect more. Canada is part of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and yet the Canadian Aviation Regulations are not compliant with the ICAO standard.
Explainer post: CARs and ICAO and what they mean for air safety
The Union of Canadian Transportation Employees commissioned a study that found the CARs do not meet 73% of ICAO standards. Shortfalls have to do with hours of operation; which ‘designated’ airports are required to meet the domestic standard; specialized equipment and training; safety management systems; and more. These are details, but safety regulations have to be detail-oriented for emergency preparedness.
Consultation process in the works
Transport Canada has initiated a Preliminary Issue and Consultation Assessment (PICA) process. UCTE is preparing a submission. We encourage our firefighter members to give input – get in touch with your FR advisory committee by February 6 via ucte-ucet@psac-afpc.com.
Resources and background
UCTE Press release November 5, 2024
