CYVR Transitions to a Runway Slot System
Starting Oct. 29, 2023, Canada’s Vancouver International Airport (CYVR) will permanently transition to a Runway Slot system, which they have already been using as a soft launch into the system with existing users since late August. The reason for the change to runway slots is to manage the flow of air traffic and improve on-time performance.
A letter from the airport states, “ALL users of YVR’s runway system will require a pre-approved arrival and departure slot prior to operation.” The Airport Reservation Office (ARO) will handle all general and business aviation slot filings.
Those who already fly into the Montreal-Trudeau International Airport (CYUL) that uses a slot program, CYVR will use the same booking system – Online Coordination System (OCS). Contact help@online-coordination.com to add CYVR to your account. New users should go to https://www.onlinecoordination.com/frontend/#/howToApply to find out how to get an account. If you do not use CYVR often, it is suggested you ask an FBO on the airport to assist with your booking.
For more information contact ARO at: slot_coordination@yvr.ca
EU Organizations Want Progression of Single European Sky 2+
The European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) recently joined other European aviation organizations in urging the European Union (EU) to advance the Single European Sky 2+ (SES 2+) proposal. According to the EBAA, it has been three years since the European Commission recasting of the SES 2+ proposal and little progress has been made.
EBAA says, “We are calling on EU policymakers and negotiators to refocus on the concept of a unified and harmonized Single and Seamless European Sky as reflected in the Industry Consultation Body’s ‘ICB Vision for a Single European Sky.’ SES2+ must not cement the status quo or stifle innovation. The EU aviation industry needs an updated regulatory framework to increase capacity and improve airspace efficiency. This will ensure maximum connectivity for EU citizens, but most importantly, lead to maximum efficiency and reductions in CO2 emissions.”
Overwhelming Support for FAA Administrator Nominee
A diverse group of leaders and aviation organizations are applauding the nomination of Mike Whitaker to be Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). President Biden announced Whitaker as the nominee on Sept. 7 and public statements of support began immediately.
Whitaker’s experience in aviation covers a broad area from serving as senior vice president of alliances, international and regulatory affairs for an airline to his most recent as Chief Commercial Officer for a company developing an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle. He also previously served as Deputy Administrator of the FAA where he worked on key issues such as NextGen modernization and emerging aviation technologies. Many also highlighted his understanding of the importance of a collaborative partnership between the aviation industry and the government and felt that Whitaker could immediately step into the position and get things done.