Transport Canada Raises Minimums for Commencing an Approach

Transport Canada has increased the minimum visibility required before beginning an approach from the previous 1,200 feet to 1,600 feet, effective December 1.

The Canadian authority's action was taken because of recommendations from Canada's Transportation Safety Board following at least two low-visibility landing accidents.  The new rule will not apply, however, to operators and crews already approved to lower visibility limits at specified runways.

The intention of the amended regulation is to prohibit commercial operators, including air-taxi services, from beginning an approach under conditions in which a successful landing is unlikely.  But Transport Canada said the new rule would also help harmonize Canada's regulations with international standards, including those in the U.S.

The visibility measurement can be made by a RVR (runway visibility range) sensor or by a qualified observer if a visibility sensor has not been installed or is out of service.  12-06-2006.

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