Rise in Canadian Runway Safety Incidents, Near Misses Stabilize
Recent data indicates a concerning trend in runway safety incidents in Canada. While extremely close calls appear to have stabilized, overall runway incursions are at an all-time high. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada reported 639 incidents in 2024, marking a significant increase.
Runway Incident Statistics
Runway incursions occur when aircraft, vehicles, or personnel are on or near a runway unexpectedly. Here are key statistics:
- Total runway incursions in 2024: 639
- Average high-risk incidents per year since 2018: Approximately 1
- Increase in incursion rate: It has nearly doubled from 2010 to 2024.
Contributing Factors
Several factors contribute to the rise in incidents. According to Yoan Marier, the chairman of the Transportation Safety Board:
- Growing air traffic volume
- Shortage of air traffic controllers
- Complex ground operations at major airports like Pearson International in Toronto
Marier indicated that the intricate layout of Pearson often leads to complications, particularly for pilots unfamiliar with the airport.
The Importance of Safety Measures
The need for enhanced safety measures is pressing. Marier advocates for better signage and improved lighting. He also recommends the broader adoption of technology to assist pilots and controllers in tracking movements on the runway.
Renewed attention to runway safety emerged recently following a tragic incident involving an Air Canada Express jet at LaGuardia Airport, where a collision with a fire truck resulted in the deaths of both pilots and injuries to numerous others.
While the safety board asserts that no recent collisions due to runway incursions have occurred in Canada, the risk remains a concern. Marier emphasizes the importance of vigilance in maintaining flight safety, stating, “Flying continues to be among the safest modes of transportation. But it only takes one incident to highlight potential dangers.”
