Qualicum Beach, BC — The Canadian Owners and Pilots Association (COPA) will appear before the Town of Qualicum Beach Council on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, to present the perspective of Canada’s General Aviation community regarding proposed airport bylaws that would introduce new airport fees and noise regulations at the Qualicum Beach Airport.
COPA Board of Directors Chair Stephen Wilcox and Director of Advocacy and External Relations George Farrington will speak on behalf of Canada’s General Aviation pilots, aircraft owners, and aviation stakeholders. The intent of their presence is to emphasize the importance of fair, evidence-based policies that are arrived at through meaningful consultation with the aviation community and in accordance with applicable standards.
While the proposed bylaws apply specifically to Qualicum Beach Airport, COPA notes that policy decisions at one public airport can influence approaches adopted at airports across Canada. The association believes it is important that the General Aviation community is represented whenever changes affecting airport access, operations, or affordability are considered.
“As a national organization, COPA brings a broad collaborative approach to the challenges that airports and General Aviation face, and we look forward to finding a solution that works well for all parties.” — Stephen Wilcox, COPA Chair and Regional Director for Southern Ontario.
COPA supports reasonable measures that balance the interests of airport users and neighbouring residents. COPA maintains that any new airport fees or operational restrictions should be transparent and justified by consideration of their impacts on pilots, local businesses, tourism, emergency services, and the long-term sustainability of public airports.
Media Contact:
Spencer Murdock
Director, Communications and Marketing
Canadian Owners and Pilots Association (COPA)
Email: smurdock@copanational.org
About the Canadian Owners and Pilots Association (COPA)
The Canadian Owners and Pilots Association (COPA) was founded in 1952 to serve as the national voice for General Aviation in Canada. COPA advocates for policies that support pilots and aircraft owners, promotes aviation safety and education, and supports the growth of a strong aviation community across Canada.
With 10,000 national members, COPA connects pilots and enthusiasts from every province and territory while working with government, regulators, and industry representatives to ensure that General Aviation continues to thrive in Canada.