Canadian Air Safety Bill Could Face Overhaul

(CP) Transportation Minister Lawrence Cannon says he is willing to consider significant amendments to a bill aimed at making changes to airline safety regulations.

Cannon appeared before the parliamentary committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities. Several witnesses have told the committee the proposed changes to the Aeronautic Safety Act will compromise airline safety in Canada.

The Federal Pilots Association have a survey indicating most of its members believe a major aviation accident is likely to occur in Canada, and that the proposed changes will give more responsibility for safety to the airline industry and increase risk to the flying public. The association has also expressed concerns that Transport Canada is decreasing the number of inspectors doing safety checks on commercial airliners.

Cannon has repeatedly said the proposed amendments and the use of Safety Management Systems are intended to maximize existing airline safety, and that it will add a layer of safety.

"This is not a bill aimed at cutting jobs. This is a bill aimed at maintaining Canada's position as a world leader in airline safety," Cannon said.

However, Cannon did say he would be willing to work with the committee in ensuring safety concerns are addressed.

Richard Balnis, who represents 8,500 flight attendants in Canada, says he's encouraged Cannon is open to changes. "In our view Bill C-6 is terribly flawed and it is in need of substantive amendment," he said.

An investigation into air safety by the Toronto Star, the Hamilton Spectator and The Record of Waterloo Region last year found that more than 80,000 passengers were put at risk during the previous five years when planes came dangerously close together in the sky. The analysis also showed a disturbing number of mechanical problems.

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