Shortage of Air Traffic Controllers Forces Canadian Airport Closures

Canada is facing a shortage of air traffic controllers, causing temporary closures of towers at Kelowna and Winnipeg airports. Air Canada advised pilots to avoid these airports during severe staffing shortages. NAV CANADA plans closures during low traffic periods, highlighting staffing concerns across North America.

A shortage of air traffic controllers in Canada has led to temporary closures of some airport towers, most notably at Kelowna and Winnipeg. This issue is highlighted in a recent memo to Air Canada pilots, which suggests avoiding these airports during severe staffing shortages.

NAV CANADA, responsible for managing the country's civil air navigation system, has warned of potential air traffic control shortages, indicating that the problem could spread to other airports as well. To mitigate impacts, closures at Winnipeg and Kelowna are planned for low traffic periods.

This shortfall reflects a larger North American problem, where similar issues in the U.S. have caused travel delays due to a government shutdown. The situation underscores a need for resilience and stability in managing air traffic systems effectively.

(With inputs from agencies.)