Transport Canada

For 2026, Transport Canada has implemented significant milestones in aviation modernization:

• AI Integration in Air Traffic Management: Implementation of AI systems for route optimization and reduction of carbon emissions, integrating the "Net-Zero 2050" goal.
• New Cybersecurity Standards: Rigorous update of cybersecurity guidelines for aircraft communication systems and passenger data, requiring all Canadian carriers to certify their systems against emerging threats.
• Sustainability Protocols (SAF): Mandates come into effect encouraging the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) on domestic flights, with mandatory reporting targets for airlines on carbon footprint per seat.
• Review of In-Flight Safety Protocols: Update of guidelines for the containment of disruptive passengers, with increased focus on crew protection and rapid intervention protocols.

Canadian regulations require full transparency in fares under the *Air Passenger Protection Regulations* (APPR):

• Transparency: Airlines must display the total ticket price, including taxes and fees, from the beginning of the purchase process.
• Lost or Damaged Baggage: The maximum financial liability for lost, damaged, or delayed baggage is governed by the Montreal Convention, which Canada fully applies. Compensation can reach approximately 1,288 Special Drawing Rights (SDRs).
• Baggage Fees: There is no mandatory free baggage allowance defined by law, but Transport Canada requires that any additional baggage fees be clearly disclosed before purchase completion.

Guidelines for pet travel are as follows:

• In-Cabin Transport: The decision to allow pets in the cabin rests with the air carrier, but Transport Canada requires that if permitted, the animal must be in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front.
• Health and Safety: Animals must be vaccinated according to Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) regulations.
• Service Animals: Strict rules ensure that trained service dogs (psychiatric or physical support) must be accepted at no additional cost in the cabin, provided they are properly documented according to accessibility guidelines.

Updated rules for 2026 ensure:

• Adjacent Seating: Airlines are required to reserve adjacent seats for children under 14 years of age and their parents or guardians at no extra cost.
• Equipment Allowance: The transport of strollers and car seats is free of charge and must not be deducted from the passenger's checked baggage allowance.
• Boarding Priority: Families with young children should be given boarding priority to ensure the proper installation of safety equipment.

Canada has one of the strictest accessibility regulations in the world (*Accessible Transportation for Persons with Disabilities Regulations*):

• Free Assistance: Carriers must provide, at no cost, assistance for boarding, deplaning, moving within the airport, and assistance with the use of toilets on long-haul flights (if equipment is available on board).
• Wheelchairs: Aircraft must prioritize accommodating passengers' wheelchairs.
• MEDIF: The *Medical Information Form* (MEDIF) is used only for cases requiring specific medical authorization to fly (e.g., medical oxygen or unstable conditions). Requests must be made at least 48 hours in advance.
• Attendant: In certain cases of severe disability, the carrier may be required to transport a support attendant at no additional cost, based on a case-by-case assessment.

• Transport Canada Travel Hub: https://tc.canada.ca/en/aviation/travel-air
• Passenger Rights (Canadian Transportation Agency): https://otc-cta.gc.ca/eng/air-passenger-protection-regulations
• Accessibility Regulations: https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/SOR-2019-244/
• Pet Travel Rules and CFIA: https://inspection.canada.ca/en/animal-health/pets
• Aviation Security (Civil Aviation): https://tc.canada.ca/en/aviation/civil-aviation