In December 2022, the Ministry of Transportation introduced amendments to the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) aimed at restricting commercial pilot flight time. While well intentioned, the amendments lack clarity and may significantly affect mineral exploration by reclassifying much of the industry’s aerial work as “air taxi” operations. This change has major financial and logistical consequences for explorers, as an operation may now need two pilots where one was previously sufficient. More importantly, they pose a notable safety risk, as the reduction in flight hours could limit pilot capacity to participate in evacuations or other emergencies.
Canadian Aviation Regulations Advisory Council (CARAC) Notice of Amendment NPA-2023-006 indicates that the amendments pose safety risks in the face of an unprecedented wildfire season. As a result, the Ministry of Transportation issued further amendments to the aerial work regulations to clarify the impacts of the changes on forest firefighting operations and launched a one-month consultation period in May 2023.
As the risks to pilots and firefighters arising from the amendments are similar to those foreseen to arise in exploration operations, PDAC’s submission aims to elucidate this relationship and provide key recommendations.
Regulatory Submissions
To support a competitive and responsible industry. PDAC undertakes a variety of advocacy and member services work.
Our Advocacy takes on variety of forms, including direct engagement with various government ministries, standing committees and regulatory agencies, as well as responding to public consultations.
Below are some of the recent issues we have taken on, with information and links to our submissions.
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19 June, 2023