Airports in Canada range from large international hubs and busy regional airports to remote aerodromes and seasonal water aerodromes. Canada’s aviation system is shaped by long distances, cold-weather operations, and access needs for northern and coastal communities. Policy and regulation rest with Transport Canada, air navigation is provided by NAV CANADA, and security screening at designated airports is delivered by the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA).
| Framework | Transport Canada (policy/regs) • NAV CANADA (air navigation) • CATSA (screening at designated airports) |
|---|---|
| Ownership & operation | Local airport authorities • Municipal/regional governments • Private/industry (many remote aerodromes) |
| Categories (examples) | International hubs • National/Regional airports • Remote/Northern aerodromes • Water aerodromes/heliports |
| Codes | IATA 3-letter (e.g., YYZ); ICAO 4-letter (e.g., CYYZ) |
Governance and roles
- Transport Canada sets aviation rules (certification of airports/heliports, safety management, runway standards, de-icing/contaminant reporting, etc.).
- NAV CANADA provides the civil air navigation system: ATC, flight information services, aeronautical information, navaids, and surveillance.
- CATSA screens passengers, carry-on, checked baggage, and certain non-passengers at designated airports under Transport Canada’s security framework.
- Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) provides border services at international airports.
Ownership and business models
Most large airports are operated by not-for-profit local airport authorities under long-term leases. Many regional/remote aerodromes are owned by municipalities, territories, Indigenous organizations, or private operators supporting resource and community access. Airport authorities publish fees, noise programs, and development plans.
Airport types
- International hubs — Major gateways with extensive domestic and international networks, on-site CBSA and advanced screening.
- National/regional airports — Connect provincial capitals, regional centres, and resource communities; security screening varies by service and designation.
- Remote/Northern aerodromes — Essential links for food, fuel, healthcare, and medevac; many use gravel or shorter runways and specialized winter operations.
- Water aerodromes/heliports — Support seaplane operations and access to coastal and lake communities.
Winter and cold-weather operations
Runway condition reporting, de-icing/anti-icing procedures, and snow/ice control plans are central to safety and reliability. Airports coordinate with airlines and ground handlers to keep movements safe during extreme weather.
Accessibility and passenger rights
Airports and air carriers must meet federal accessibility requirements overseen by the Canadian Transportation Agency. Travellers have defined rights under the Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR) and can request accommodations, assistance, and barrier-free services.
Safety, noise, and community
Airports operate safety management systems, publish noise-abatement procedures, and consult communities on land use and development. Approach and obstacle-limitation surfaces are managed to protect flight paths.
See also
- Transport Canada • NAV CANADA • Canadian Air Transport Security Authority • Canadian Transportation Agency
- Aviation in Canada • Transportation Safety Board of Canada • Public safety in Canada
External links (official)
- Transport Canada — Aerodromes & airports: https://tc.canada.ca/en/aviation
- NAV CANADA — Aeronautical information & flight planning: https://www.navcanada.ca/