SoVote

Bill C-52

44th Parl. 1st Sess.

November 21, 2023

Bill C-52 is a new law that aims to increase transparency and accountability in the Canadian air transportation sector. The law requires airport operators, air carriers, and entities providing flight-related services to provide information to the Minister of Transport. It also establishes requirements for noise management committees and sets out notice and consultation requirements relating to aircraft noise. Additionally, Part 2 of the bill amends the Canada Transportation Act to support a transportation system accessible to all persons, while Part 3 amends the Canada Marine Act to increase clarity in fixing port fees and add a fee-related complaints process. The bill creates an administration and enforcement mechanism that includes an administrative monetary penalty framework. Overall, this new law seeks to enhance transparency and accountability in the Canadian transportation system.

The Enhancing Transparency and Accountability in the Transportation System Act, specifically the Air Transportation Accountability Act, is a necessary measure to increase transparency and accountability in the air transportation sector. The Act requires airport operators, air carriers, and entities providing flight-related services to provide information to the Minister of Transport and establishes regulations for the development and implementation of service standards related to flights and flight-related services, including a dispute resolution process. Additionally, the Act establishes requirements for noise management committees and climate change plans, as well as procedures for dealing with complaints relating to accessibility in relation to the transportation of persons with disabilities. Overall, the Act aims to create a more informed and equitable air transportation system that benefits all parties involved.

While increasing transparency and accountability in the transportation sector is an admirable goal, Bill C-52 may impose excessive regulations on the industry. The new requirements for information provision and climate change planning may place an undue burden on airport operators and air carriers, leading to increased costs for consumers. Additionally, the establishment of noise management committees could lead to slower decision-making and conflicts between stakeholders. The proposed administrative monetary penalty framework could also be unfairly punitive, with violations resulting in significant fines without due consideration of the circumstances. Instead, the government should focus on working with industry leaders to find more efficient and effective solutions to the issues facing the transportation sector.