Category: NAV Canada

  • NAV CANADA and Micro Nav Partner to Modernize Air Traffic Services Training

    OTTAWA, ON, Jan. 21, 2026 /CNW/ – NAV CANADA today announced that it has selected Micro Nav Limited, a leading provider of Air Traffic Control (ATC) simulation solutions and part of the Indra Group, as its simulation technology provider under a multi-year Framework Agreement.

    Left to right: Victor Martinez (Executive vice president ATM at Indra), Greg Pile (Managing director at Micro Nav), David Sheppard (VP & Chief Technology and Information Officer at NAV CANADA) and Amanda Sarginson (VP & Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary at NAV CANADA). (CNW Group/NAV CANADA)
    Left to right: Victor Martinez (Executive vice president ATM at Indra), Greg Pile (Managing director at Micro Nav), David Sheppard (VP & Chief Technology and Information Officer at NAV CANADA) and Amanda Sarginson (VP & Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary at NAV CANADA). (CNW Group/NAV CANADA)
    Left to right: Vanessa Thatcher (Assistant Vice-President, Enterprise Business Solutions at NAV CANADA), Victor Martinez (Executive vice president ATM at Indra), Greg Pile (Managing director at Micro Nav), Amanda Sarginson(VP & Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary at NAV CANADA), David Sheppard (VP & Chief Technology and Information Officer at NAV CANADA) and Kevin Caron (Assistant Vice President, ATS Learning at NAV CANADA). (CNW Group/NAV CANADA)
    Left to right: Vanessa Thatcher (Assistant Vice-President, Enterprise Business Solutions at NAV CANADA), Victor Martinez (Executive vice president ATM at Indra), Greg Pile (Managing director at Micro Nav), Amanda Sarginson(VP & Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary at NAV CANADA), David Sheppard (VP & Chief Technology and Information Officer at NAV CANADA) and Kevin Caron (Assistant Vice President, ATS Learning at NAV CANADA). (CNW Group/NAV CANADA)

    The agreement supports NAV CANADA’s Operational Training Modernization Program (OTMP) by establishing a consolidated, next-generation simulation platform across its national training network. The new technology will modernize how air traffic services (ATS) professionals are trained, while providing the scalability and resilience required to support long-term operational needs.

    Under the agreement, NAV CANADA will deploy Micro Nav’s BEST simulation platform, enabling a comprehensive data-driven modernization of its simulation environment. Once fully implemented, the platform will support training the current and future generation of Air Traffic Services Professionals.

    As the world’s second-largest air navigation service provider (ANSP) and member of the iTEC alliance, NAV CANADA relies extensively on simulation to train Flight Service Specialists and air traffic controllers across tower, terminal, enroute and oceanic operations. Training is delivered through seven regional training centres and supports operations at airports and airspace across Canada.

    “The selection of Micro Nav’s BEST platform is a key step in modernizing our training infrastructure nationwide,” said David Sheppard, Vice President & Chief Technology and Information Officer at NAV CANADA. “This technology provides a scalable, resilient foundation that supports our long-term training modernization objectives.”

    “This agreement supports our commitment to developing and empowering the next generation of air traffic services professionals,” said Diana Kelly, Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at NAV CANADA. “Modern, high-fidelity simulation technology will enhance how our students learn and Air Traffic Services Learning professionals enable learning, collaborate, and meet today’s challenges — and stay ready for tomorrow’s.”

    “This partnership represents a significant milestone for both organizations,” said Greg Pile, Managing Director at Micro Nav. “NAV CANADA’s selection of BEST validates our commitment to delivering world-class ATC simulation technology that supports the evolving needs of modern air navigation service providers. We look forward to working closely with NAV CANADA to achieve their OTMP vision.”

    The BEST platform provides comprehensive coverage across all ATC domains, delivering fully integrated tower, approach, en-route, and data analytics capabilities, including advanced performance analysis through BEST Insights. It offers seamless, native integration with a wide range of OEM ATM systems, enabling training, validation, and operational support at the highest fidelity available in the industry.

    The solution incorporates AI-enabled speech recognition, high-fidelity 3D Tower visualizations, scenario and data creation capabilities, and connectivity with operational systems for training and validation purposes. The platform is designed to support flexible training configurations while ensuring the end user retains full control over data management, system configuration, and usage requirements.

    Quick Facts

    • Micro Nav’s BEST simulation platform will be deployed across NAV CANADA’s national training network to modernize and enhance air traffic services training.
    • The multi-year Framework Agreement establishes a standardized simulation technology solution to support long-term training needs.
    • The platform will modernize simulation capabilities supporting air traffic control towers, flight service stations (FSS), and area control centres (ACCs) across NAV CANADA’s national training network.
    • Once fully implemented, the platform will enable the simultaneous training of more than 270 Enroute and Approach air traffic controllers nationwide.

    About Micro Nav Limited

    Micro Nav Limited is a leading provider of air traffic control simulation technology, delivering the BEST simulation platform to Air Navigation Service Providers, airports, training colleges, and military organisations across 40+ countries with 2,400+ active licences. As part of the Indra Group, Micro Nav combines decades of ATC simulation expertise with global knowledge. For more information, visit www.micronav.co.uk.

    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.

  • NAV CANADA announces fiscal 2026 first quarter financial results

    OTTAWA, ON, Jan. 7, 2026 /CNW/ – NAV CANADA today released its financial results for the three months ended November 30, 2025.

    In the first quarter of fiscal 2026, NAV CANADA delivered solid financial results in a dynamic aviation environment, while maintaining a strong focus on safety, operational resilience, and disciplined investment in people and infrastructure. As air traffic demand remained relatively strong, the Company continued to advance its long-term modernization agenda while managing costs and risks with care.

    NAV CANADA maintained strong liquidity, positioning the Company to support increased capital investment in the year ahead.

    “These results reflect a balanced approach to managing today’s operations while investing for tomorrow,” said Mark Cooper, President and CEO. “Continued investment in staffing, training capacity and critical infrastructure is strengthening the foundation for service delivery while supporting future operations.”

    In the first quarter of fiscal 2026, the Company saw an increase in air traffic levels, as measured in weighted charging units, of 2.3% on a year over year basis. The Company’s revenue was $475 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2026, which is $26 million higher than the same period in fiscal 2025, due to the increase in customer service charge rates effective January 1, 2025 and higher weighted charging unit volumes.

    The Company ended the quarter with strong liquidity reserves, including a cash balance of $750 million. Positive free cash flow of $7 million was generated in the first quarter of fiscal 2026, as compared to $83 million in the same period in fiscal 2025, reflecting our increased investment in staffing, training capacity and our infrastructure.

    The rate stabilization account shortfall balance reduced by $31 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2026. As of November 30, 2025, the shortfall balance was $29 million and is expected to be recovered from customers through future service charges.

    Associated Links

    The Company’s Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the three months ended November 30, 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.

  • NAV CANADA reports November 2025 traffic figure

    OTTAWA, ON, Dec. 17, 2025 /CNW/ – NAV CANADA announced today its traffic figure for the month of November 2025 as measured in weighted charging units for enroute, terminal and oceanic air navigation services, in comparison to the prior year.

    In November 2025 weighted charging units were higher on average by 0.4 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 Compny’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.

  • NAV CANADA Launches Major NAV Drone Update

    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.

    Drone (CNW Group/NAV CANADA)
    Drone (CNW Group/NAV CANADA)
    NAV Drone (CNW Group/NAV CANADA)
    NAV Drone (CNW Group/NAV CANADA)

    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

    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.

  • NAV CANADA reports September 2025 traffic figure

    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.

  • NAV CANADA announces year-end financial results

    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.

  • NAV CANADA reports August 2025 traffic figure

    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.

  • NAV CANADA Launches New Digital Land Use Submission Portal

    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 

  • Innovation Takes Flight – NAV CANADA Breaks Ground on Canada’s First Digital Air Traffic Facility in Kingston

    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 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.

  • NAV CANADA reports July 2025 traffic figure

    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.