The International Civil Aviation Day was established in 1994 by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and later recognized by the United Nations General Assembly, to help create and reinforce worldwide awareness of the importance of international civil aviation to the social and economic development of various countries. Canada is one of the ICAO member states who, by its affiliation, upholds ICAO’s goals and standards.

This past summer, Transport Canada admitted that it has not always aligned itself with the standards established by ICAO. While acknowledging the problem is the first step to fixing it, it is up to us, every person who works in the aviation industry or travels by air, to hold our government accountable. The standards set out by ICAO are the minimum expected for every country. Canadians deserve at least the bare minimum.

On this International Civil Aviation Day, we honour our members. Whether as an inspector, a firefighter, or as part of an airport authority, our members who work in the various areas of civil aviation contribute to ensuring families are reunited, communities prosper economically and all travellers by air are safe.

Thank you for your work.