OTTAWA, ON, Nov. 4, 2025 /CNW/ – NAV CANADA today launched a significant update to its NAV Drone app, expanding the range of operations available to drone pilots across Canada. The upgrade comes into effect alongside the second phase of Transport Canada’s 2025 drone regulations and marks another step forward in safely and efficiently integrating drones into Canadian airspace.

The new update enables drone pilots to conduct additional types of complex operations, including low-risk beyond visual line-of-sight (BVLOS) flights in uncontrolled airspace, sheltered operations close to structures, and extended visual line-of-sight (EVLOS) with the support of certified visual observers. The app now also supports medium weight (25kg-150kg) drone operations, unlocking opportunities for new commercial applications such as precision agriculture and infrastructure inspection.

“These enhancements to NAV Drone are about more than keeping pace with regulatory change – they are about unlocking the economic potential of Canada’s skies,” said David Sheppard, Vice President and Chief Technology and Information Officer at NAV CANADA. “By enabling more complex and commercially relevant drone operations, we are helping Canadian businesses innovate, create jobs, and strengthen Canada’s position in the global drone economy.”

“NAV CANADA continues to work closely with Transport Canada and industry partners to ensure the safe, secure and efficient integration of drones into the airspace system,” said Alan Chapman, Director RPAS Traffic Management at NAV CANADA. “This update is a central part of the company’s broader Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems Traffic Management (RTM) program, which will underpin Canada’s transition toward a more modern and flexible air traffic management framework.”

First introduced in 2021, NAV Drone has become the platform for Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) operators seeking authorization to fly in controlled airspace. More than 90,000 users are now registered on the app, with nearly one-third joining since 2024 alone.

Quick Facts

• The NAV Drone app is designed to help pilots fly safely and legally in Canada’s controlled airspace, with built-in tools to plan flights, verify airspace conditions, and receive authorizations in real time.
• NAV Drone processes over a thousand flight authorization requests each week, serving as the single national platform for drone access to controlled airspace.
• The app is free to download on the Apple App Store and Google Play, with a web version also available through NAV CANADA’s website.
• The latest update supports Transport Canada’s phased regulatory roadmap for RPAS through 2025 and beyond.

Related Links

• Blog – Big Changes Coming to NAV Drone: New Operation Types Available November 4, 2025
• NAV Drone support page
• 2025 Summary of changes to Canada’s drone regulations
• Transport Canada Drone Safety page

About NAV CANADA

NAV CANADA is a private, not-for-profit company, established in 1996, providing air traffic control, airport advisory services, weather briefings and aeronautical information services for more than 18 million square kilometres of Canadian domestic and international airspace.

The Company is internationally recognized for its safety record and technology innovation.

OTTAWA, ON , Oct. 28, 2025 /CNW/ – NAV CANADA announced today its traffic figure for the month of September 2025 as measured in weighted charging units for enroute, terminal and oceanic air navigation services, in comparison to the prior year.

In September 2025 weighted charging units were higher on average by 3.1 percent compared to the same month in 2024.

Weighted charging units represent a traffic measure that reflects the number of billable flights, aircraft size and distance flown in Canadian airspace and is the basis for movement-based service charges, which comprise the vast majority of the Company’s air traffic revenue.

About NAV CANADA

NAV CANADA is a private, not-for-profit company, established in 1996, providing air traffic control, airport advisory services, weather briefings and aeronautical information services for more than 18 million square kilometres of Canadian domestic and international airspace.

The Company is internationally recognized for its safety record, and technology innovation.

OTTAWA, ON, Oct. 23, 2025 /CNW/ – NAV CANADA today released its financial results for the year ended August 31, 2025.

In fiscal 2025, NAV CANADA delivered robust financial performance while continuing to invest in the future of Canada’s air navigation system. In an uncertain aviation landscape, the Company remained focused on what it can control: keeping Canada’s skies safe, modernizing critical systems, and investing in its people.

That focus drove tangible progress. Priority investment in staffing and training efforts supported a reduction in service delivery risk and progress on long-term transformation plans. This included confirmation of the planned implementation of iTEC SkyNex — a Canadian first — that will strengthen the backbone of air traffic management, as well as breaking ground on Canada’s first Digital Aerodrome Air Traffic Services facility in Kingston.

“These results reflect the strength of our people and the resilience of our business,” said Mark Cooper, President and CEO. “We are managing risks with discipline while investing in the talent and technologies that will support service delivery and shape the future of Canada’s air navigation system. From being named one of Canada’s best employers by Forbes to deploying world-class systems, we are building lasting value for Canadians who rely on safe, efficient skies every day.”

In fiscal 2025, the Company saw an increase in air traffic levels, as measured in weighted charging units, of 3.3% on a year-over-year basis as demand for air travel remained strong. The Company’s revenue was $1,856 million in fiscal 2025, which is $56 million higher than in fiscal 2024, due to the increase in customer service charge rates effective January 1, 2025 and higher weighted charging unit volumes.

The Company ended the year with strong liquidity reserves, including a cash balance of $742 million. Positive free cash flow of $105 million was generated in fiscal 2025 as compared to $162 million in fiscal 2024, reflecting our increased investment in staffing, training capacity and our infrastructure.

The rate stabilization account shortfall balance reduced by $115 million in fiscal 2025. As of August 31, 2025, the shortfall balance had declined to $60 million and is expected to be recovered from customers through future service charges. 

Associated Links

The Company’s Financial Statements, Management’s Discussion and Analysis and Annual Information Form for the year ended August 31, 2025 can be found at:

Financial Statements
Management’s Discussion and Analysis
Annual Information Form

About NAV CANADA

NAV CANADA is a private, not-for-profit company, established in 1996, providing air traffic control, airport advisory services, weather briefings and aeronautical information services for more than 18 million square kilometres of Canadian domestic and international airspace.

The Company is internationally recognized for its safety record, and technology innovation.

OTTAWA, ON, Sept. 29, 2025 /CNW/ – NAV CANADA announced today its traffic figure for the month of August 2025 as measured in weighted charging units for enroute, terminal and oceanic air navigation services, in comparison to the prior year.

In August 2025 weighted charging units were higher on average by 1.7 percent compared to the same month in 2024.

Weighted charging units represent a traffic measure that reflects the number of billable flights, aircraft size and distance flown in Canadian airspace and is the basis for movement-based service charges, which comprise the vast majority of the Company’s air traffic revenue.

About NAV CANADA

NAV CANADA is a private, not-for-profit company, established in 1996, providing air traffic control, airport advisory services, weather briefings and aeronautical information services for more than 18 million square kilometres of Canadian domestic and international airspace.

The Company is internationally recognized for its safety record, and technology innovation.

OTTAWA, ON, Sept. 15 2025 /CNW/ – NAV CANADA today announced the launch of its Land Use Web Submission Portal (LUWSP), a modern digital platform that streamlines how land developers, municipalities and other proponents submit and track land use requests near airports and air navigation infrastructure.

Replacing traditional paper forms and email submissions, the new system provides a centralized, user-friendly online system. It is intended to reduce manual processes, accelerate turnaround times before construction begins, and ensure requests are handled with greater accuracy and consistency.

With the LUWSP, proponents gain access to modern submission management tools. They can upload documents, submit multiple obstacles at once, save drafts, and track the status of requests in real time. Automated confirmations and reference numbers are generated within minutes, ensuring transparency and reliability at every step.

“This launch marks a significant step forward in our AIM Modernization strategy.” says David Sheppard, Vice President and Chief Technology and Information Officer. “It reflects our ongoing commitment to enhancing the tools and systems that support aeronautical information services, ensuring our processes are more efficient, intuitive, and aligned with the evolving demands of the aviation sector.”

The land use review process plays a critical role in protecting the safety and operational integrity of the Canadian Air Navigation Service. Reviews assess potential conflicts with landing and take-off procedures, possible interference with navigational signals, and other risks that could affect aircraft operations. By ensuring that developments are compatible with surrounding aviation infrastructure, NAV CANADA helps safeguard essential air service and connectivity for communities across the country.  

As Canada ramps up housing and infrastructure projects from coast to coast to coast, this modernization responds to the need for thorough and efficient reviews, while upholding the highest standards of aviation safety.

Quick Facts

• The Land Use Web Submission Portal (LUSWP) is now live, providing a digital alternative to paper and email submissions.
• Users benefit from:
  • Faster turnaround times – automated confirmations and reference numbers issued within minutes.
  • Simplified workflows – making it easier for NAV CANADA to process requests efficiently and consistently.
  • Improved submission management – including the ability to save drafts, upload multiple obstacles at once, and track requests in real time.
  • Modern design – an intuitive interface built for a seamless user experience.
• The portal directly supports NAV CANADA’s AIM Modernization strategy, a multi-year effort to improve aeronautical information management through digital tools, automation, and service enhancements.
• Land use reviews are essential to ensuring proposed developments do not pose risks to aviation safety or disrupt critical air navigation services.

Associated links

To learn more and access the portal, visit the updated webpage.

NAV CANADA LUSWP portal:  Land Use Web Submission Portal 

OTTAWA, ON, Sept. 10, 2025 /CNW/ – NAV CANADA today announced that the construction of the Kingston Digital Facility (KDF) is underway, a first-of-its-kind site that will serve as the new operational site and as a transitional facility prior to Canada’s future digital Air Traffic Services hubs.

The KDF marks a critical milestone in validating the design, technology, and operational concepts that will shape the future of air navigation across the country. Temporary by design, the facility is expected to be completed by summer 2026. Once validated, it will support Kingston and an additional airport. It will also serve as the foundation for Canada’s first permanent digital hub—also to be built in Kingston—which will eventually host remote services for up to 20 airports.

Digital facilities reimagine how air navigation services are delivered, providing NAV CANADA with the flexibility to manage multiple airports from one location. This approach enhances resilience, sustainability and adaptability in a rapidly changing aviation landscape, while maintaining the same high-quality services that pilots, operators and communities rely on every day.

“The Kingston Digital Facility is more than a temporary facility—it’s a key step on the journey towards a new way of delivering air navigation services,” says David Sheppard, Vice President & Chief Technology and Information Officer. “This is about harnessing innovation and building resilience into Canada’s aviation system, ensuring we embrace technology that keeps our skies safe in lockstep with the global aviation community.”

“Our people are at the heart of this technological shift,” says Marie-Pier Berman, Vice President & Chief of Operations.  “By combining high-resolution sensors, secure data networks, and advanced digital displays, our skilled air traffic services teams will leverage additional capabilities to safely manage aircraft operations.”

“This is a proud moment for Kingston. Hosting Canada’s first digital air traffic facility puts our city at the forefront of aviation innovation, bringing high-skilled, future-ready jobs to our community. Kingston has long been known for its leadership in education, research, and innovation, and this milestone positions us as a key partner in shaping the future of air traffic management in Canada,” says Bryan Paterson, Mayor of Kingston.

The Kingston project is part of the broader Digital Aerodrome Air Traffic Services (DAATS) initiative, joining a global shift already underway in 16 countries, including Norway, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. With more than 65 digital facilities operating or in development worldwide, this milestone places Kingston and Canada at the forefront of an emerging international aviation trend.

This facility provides Kingston the opportunity to lead the next generation of Canadian aviation. NAV CANADA remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety, ensuring seamless continuity of service for the aviation community throughout this transition.

Quick Facts

• DAATS is a multi-year, evolutionary program that will gradually expand to multiple hubs across the country.
• Similar digital facilities are already operating in more than 16 countries, including Norway, Sweden, and the UK. Over 65 sites are now in use or in development worldwide.
• This initiative will not change existing levels of service at Kingston or other participating airports.
• Additional airports to be connected to both Kingston’s temporary facility and the future digital hub will be announced in due course.

Related Links

• About Kongsberg
• About Buttcon
• NAV CANADA partners with Kongsberg on Digital Facilities Initiative
• NAV CANADA advances its Digital Facility Initiative

About NAV CANADA

NAV CANADA is a private, not-for-profit company, established in 1996, providing air traffic control, airport advisory services, weather briefings and aeronautical information services for more than 18 million square kilometres of Canadian domestic and international airspace.

The Company is internationally recognized for its safety record, and technology innovation.

OTTAWA, ON, Aug. 22, 2025 /CNW/ – NAV CANADA announced today its traffic figure for the month of July 2025 as measured in weighted charging units for enroute, terminal and oceanic air navigation services, in comparison to the prior year.

In July 2025 weighted charging units were higher on average by 4.9 percent compared to the same month in 2024.

Weighted charging units represent a traffic measure that reflects the number of billable flights, aircraft size and distance flown in Canadian airspace and is the basis for movement-based service charges, which comprise the vast majority of the Company’s air traffic revenue.

About NAV CANADA

NAV CANADA is a private, not-for-profit company, established in 1996, providing air traffic control, airport advisory services, weather briefings and aeronautical information services for more than 18 million square kilometres of Canadian domestic and international airspace.

The Company is internationally recognized for its safety record, and technology innovation.

OTTAWA, ON, Aug. 21, 2025 /CNW/ – NAV CANADA today announced that Micheline Pion will join NAV CANADA on October 6, 2025 and will assume the position of Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, effective January 8, 2026. Ms. Pion will replace Donna Mathieu who will be retiring as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer on January 7, 2026.

Ms. Pion is a highly accomplished executive with over 20 years of progressive experience in finance, strategy, and business transformation. She has held several senior leadership positions across the energy and resources sectors, most recently serving as General Manager, Business Development at Rio Tinto Aluminium, where she supported the development and execution of a global growth strategy. Prior to this, she served as CFO of Evolugen – Brookfield Renewable, where she was responsible for financial oversight, leading strategic financial planning, capital markets, investor relations, regulatory compliance, and risk management.

“I am very pleased to welcome Micheline to NAV CANADA. This is a critical leadership role as we continue to strengthen our financial sustainability and deliver value to our stakeholders. Micheline’s deep expertise in financial strategy will be invaluable, particularly as we navigate the complexities of our strategic direction and maintain a strong, transparent approach to financial stewardship,” said Mark Cooper, President and CEO.

About NAV CANADA

NAV CANADA is a private, not-for-profit company, established in 1996, providing air traffic control, airport advisory services, weather briefings and aeronautical information services for more than 18 million square kilometres of Canadian domestic and international airspace.

The Company is internationally recognized for its safety record, and technology innovation.

OTTAWA, ON, July 21, 2025 /CNW/ – NAV CANADA announced today its traffic figure for the month of June 2025 as measured in weighted charging units for enroute, terminal and oceanic air navigation services, in comparison to the prior year.

In June 2025 weighted charging units were higher on average by 4.1 percent compared to the same month in 2024.

Weighted charging units represent a traffic measure that reflects the number of billable flights, aircraft size and distance flown in Canadian airspace and is the basis for movement-based service charges, which comprise the vast majority of the Company’s air traffic revenue.

About NAV CANADA

NAV CANADA is a private, not-for-profit company, established in 1996, providing air traffic control, airport advisory services, weather briefings and aeronautical information services for more than 18 million square kilometres of Canadian domestic and international airspace.

The Company is internationally recognized for its safety record, and technology innovation.

SOURCE NAV CANADA

OTTAWA, ON, July 10, 2025 /CNW/ – NAV CANADA today released its financial results for the three and nine months ended May 31, 2025.

In the third quarter of fiscal 2025, the Company saw a further increase in air traffic levels, as measured in weighted charging units, of 4.5% on a year over year basis. The Company’s revenue for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 was $466 million, compared to $433 million over the same period in fiscal 2024.

During this quarter, NAV CANADA’s financial performance demonstrated strong operating results, reflecting increased air traffic levels and the Company’s commitment to fiscal responsibility. NAV CANADA is proud to have earned prestigious recognitions, including the CANSO level 2 GreenATM Environmental Accreditation and the CANSO Global Safety Achievement Award, underscoring our commitment to excellence, sustainability and safety.

“Traffic figures reflect the industry’s resilience and operational strength despite recent headwinds,” says Mark Cooper, NAV CANADA’s President and CEO. “By continuously investing in our people and technology, we are building a foundation for long-term success. We remain focused on maintaining this momentum and delivering value to all our stakeholders.”

The Company is closely monitoring external events, assessing our risks and positioning ourselves to remain agile amid heightened global uncertainty.

The Company had positive free cash flow of $26 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 as compared to positive free cash flow of $17 million in the same period in fiscal 2024. The increase in free cash flow is driven by higher receipts of government grants and lower capital investments, partially offset by lower operating cash inflows as compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2024. The Company ended the quarter with a cash balance of $675 million.

Operating expenses for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 were $443 million as compared to $418 million over the same period in fiscal 2024, primarily due to higher compensation costs driven by an increase in both wage and staffing levels.

Other expenses for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 were $42 million as compared to $19 million over the same period in fiscal 2024, primarily due to change in fair value of the investment in Aireon as well as the impact of changes in the Canadian and U.S. dollar exchange rate on this investment.

The Company had a net loss (before net movement in regulatory deferral accounts including rate stabilization) of $19 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 as compared to a net loss of $5 million for the third quarter of fiscal 2024.

The Company is subject to legislation that regulates its approach to setting charges. The timing of the recovery of certain revenue and expenses through customer service charges is managed through movements in regulatory deferral accounts. The net movement in regulatory deferral accounts for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 was an income of $19 million as compared to an expense of $27 million over the same period in fiscal 2024.

As of May 31, 2025, the rate stabilization account had a debit balance of $168 million, which reflects a decrease of $18 million during the quarter. This shortfall is to be recovered from customers through future customer service charges.

Associated Links

The Company’s Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the three and nine months ended May 31, 2025 can be found at:

Financial Statements
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

About NAV CANADA

NAV CANADA is a private, not-for-profit company, established in 1996, providing air traffic control, airport advisory services, weather briefings and aeronautical information services for more than 18 million square kilometres of Canadian domestic and international airspace.

The Company is internationally recognized for its safety record and technology innovation.