Duty Times Drop, Rest Periods Increase Under New Regulations

The Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) commends Transport Canada for announcing new flight- and duty-time regulations for professional pilots in Canada, through publication in Gazette II.

For many years Canada’s flight- and duty-time regulations have been acknowledged by aviation industry experts as inadequate for ensuring that pilots are well-rested when they fly. Today’s long-overdue announcement is a result of nearly a decade of work, and ALPA has been actively engaged every step of the way.

“We’ve worked diligently to secure updated science-based, flight- and duty-time regulations which for years has been one of the most important aviation safety issues for flight crews in Canada,” said Capt. Dan Adamus, ALPA Canada President. “While the regulations announced today do not address all of our concerns and recommendations, they are a significant improvement over the current rules and will improve aviation safety,” continued Adamus.

“These regulations bring Canada in line with the rest of the world and above all, improve safety for passengers and flight crews alike,” added Capt. Tim Canoll, ALPA International President. “Flying while fatigued is simply unsafe.  These new rules will give pilots and operators the guidance they need to ensure the crew are fully rested before reporting for duty.”

ALPA will continue to work with industry and government stakeholders to advocate for future safety enhancements that help ensure a safe and robust commercial aviation system in Canada.

(Source: ALPA news release)

FMI: www.alpa.org