WHEREAS the Aeronautical Studys changes implemented by Nav Canada on May 7, 2007 have negatively impacted many residents in the Lower Mainland; AND WHEREAS the impacted communities and residents were not consulted during the Aeronautical Study; AND WHEREAS Nav Canadas governance model does not require consultation with communities or affected municipalities where air traffic changes take place; AND WHEREAS there is not currently a requirement for an environmental impact study to take place when considering airspace changes; AND WHEREAS the Minister of Transportation will only exert authority on issues concerning air safety: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Union of BC Municipalities UBCM call upon the federal government to revisit the legislative framework of Nav Canada to ensure that proper consultation takes place with affected communities and residents; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the UBCM call upon the federal government to ensure that environmental impact studies take place prior to any airspace changes.
Ministry of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities As you may be aware, NAV CANADA has sole authority for planning air routes in the vicinity of airports. Airports are subject to the provisions of the Aeronautics Act and the Canadian Aviation Regulations regarding noise and related issues. The current practices and procedures are applied equally to all communities that may be affected by aircraft noise. Transport Canada believes that the existing regime protects the interests of the communities in the vicinity of airports, and the department does not plan to amend either the Aeronautics Act or the Civil Air Navigation Services Commercialization Act.