News

The Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport (CNK4) has just finished its first operational year following the completion of the runway project. The modernized runway has made sure the airport can better accommodate the residents and visitors of the shores of Georgian Bay, and the Parry Sound and Muskoka districts

Many Canadians look forward to escaping icy winters to sunny destinations. For pilots, the getaway is even more thrilling when you can fly yourself and your family there. But whether you’re relaxing on a beach or exploring new cities, one thing is certain: unexpected medical emergencies abroad can turn your dream trip into a nightmare. That’s where snowbird travel insurance comes in—and for pilots, the COPACare Travel Plan offers coverage as unique as your journeys.

The Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions (EAGLE) initiative warns pilots regarding concerns over misfuelling as new unleaded fuels of varying types of octane levels are starting to make their way to the market. Canadian operators should be aware if they are travelling in the US that the unleaded fuel has not yet been approved for use in Canadian registered aircraft.

NAV CANADA has announced the appointment of Mark Cooper who will take on the role of President and CEO, effective December 2, 2024. Cooper’s appointment follows the upcoming retirement of Raymond G. Bohn, who has led NAV CANADA through significant challenges and initiatives. Bohn will remain involved through the leadership transition until the end of the year.

The Airworthiness Directive (AD) targets certain Lycoming model engines that have a certain Connecting Rod Assembly and/or Connecting Rod Bushing.  The AD was created after several reports of connecting rod failures which resulted in inflight engine shut downs. The AD will become into effect on December 5, 2024 and will impact approximately 16,000 engines and the FAA estimates the cost of compliance to be $17,312,000 USD.

Long-time COPA member Kathy Fox retired this past summer as Chairperson of the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) after 50 years of service to her country, and has spent most of her life immersed in aviation. A member of COPA since 1980, Kathy has been a staunch supporter of General Aviation.

As provinces like Québec consider eliminating the biannual time change, pilot and COPA member Christopher Ball urges recreational aviators to advocate for keeping Daylight Savings Time year-round. Read more on how Christopher highlights the negative impacts of Standard Time on evening flying opportunities and vehicle safety, emphasizing the need for action among pilots and the aviation community overall.

Need ideas for holiday gifts for the pilots in your life? In this product review, Phil Lightstone explores Apple’s new iPad Mini A17 Pro, highlighting its benefits for pilots in the left seat. With enhanced performance, Wi-Fi 6E, and more, it's the ultimate cockpit companion for aviation enthusiasts this season!

This year, COPA received nearly 800 scholarship applications, reviewed by a committee of dedicated pilots. Described by the review committee as one of the most impressive cohorts of applicants, seven outstanding individuals were chosen to receive a combined total of $32,000 in support of their flight training. Read on to find out more about these remarkable individuals and their inspiring journeys in aviation.

Each year, COPA’s Volunteer Awards Program honours the remarkable individuals and organizations that contribute significantly to the advancement of general aviation in Canada. This year, we are proud to announce the 21 recipients of the various COPA Volunteer Awards. Please join us in celebrating their achievements and their contributions to the general aviation community across Canada.