441-01819 (Environment)

Transport Canada is aware of the business operations of Skydive Ontario, based at the Cayuga East Aerodrome (CAF2) and the impacts on the surrounding community. 

A history of complaints has been submitted to the Department regarding Skydive Ontario, including issues such as: noise; unsafe flying; low flying; flying in clouds; flying at night; firearms use; wildlife management; the construction of a hangar; lead pollution; etc. To date, there have been no regulatory non-conformities identified by Transport Canada officials. Additionally, departmental officials have maintained a dialogue with the operator to advise of the community concerns and have been informed of accommodations made in an attempt to address some of the issues. 

One of the mitigation strategies to address noise and low flying includes the implementation of their Noise Program, which includes varied departure and arrival paths, along with minimized power during approaches. While the Department understands this is a difficult issue experienced by the community, Transport Canada’s experience shows that these matters are most effectively addressed at the local community level, and it is recommended that the community and the air operator engage in constructive dialogue to work towards a feasible solution. Complaints regarding trespassing on private property should be directed to the local law enforcement agencies by the residents. 

As the safety regulator for aviation in Canada, Transport Canada exercises its authority through the Aeronautics Act and the Canadian Aviation Regulations. Accordingly, within the Department’s jurisdictional authority, various surveillance activities have been conducted to follow-up on the reports provided by the community, and no regulatory non-conformities have been identified.