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Canadian Business Aviation Association
“As
the voice for Canadian corporate and business aviation, the Canadian
Business Aviation Association has, for over forty years, promoted the
recognition of business aviation, and safety, security and efficiency
among its members, resulting in significant contributions to aviation in
Canada.”
- Belt of
Orion Award, 2007
In 1920 Imperial Oil
acquired two Junkers JL6 aircraft for use in oil exploration and
personnel transport in the remote areas of Northern Canada. Business
aviation in Canada traces its roots back to this event. By the late
1930’s, aircraft design and operation were greatly improved, advancing
wider use of aircraft.
In 1959, a group of corporate pilots led by John R. Martin met with the
manager of the Canadian Owners and Pilots Association (COPA), proposing
the formation of an association which would operate under its umbrella. An
organization called the Canadian Business Aircraft Operators (CBAO) was
formed. Its goal was to help member companies deal collectively with
issues and the many restrictions that corporate flights were facing.
In the fall of 1959, the first convention of CBAO was held in conjunction
with COPA’s annual meeting at St. Jovite, Quebec. By the end of that year,
32 member companies were registered.
In 1962 the group became an independent organization and was incorporated
as the Canadian Business Aircraft Association (CBAA), with 11 founding
members listed on the letters patent. Their first convention was held in
Toronto later that year. CBAA now had over 40 member companies.
From its humble beginnings over 80 years ago, business aviation has grown
to become an integral part of Canada’s economy. Today, CBAA’s membership
stands at more than 270 companies which operate over 500 business
aircraft. In 2001 it was renamed the Canadian Business Aviation
Association.
Corporate aircraft have access to many airports that are closer to the
user’s destination. They provide a vital air transport link to many
communities not serviced by scheduled operators, enabling many firms to
maintain a competitive edge in the market place. From single engine,
owner-piloted aircraft to intercontinentally capable corporate jets,
business aviation represents a diverse range of aircraft and operators.
CBAA is affiliated with other aviation associations, including COPA, the
Air Transport Association of Canada (ATAC), Aviation Councils, the
Northern Air Transportation Association (NATA), and local Airport
Authorities. CBAA works in coordination with these and other organizations
to address matters of common concern. CBAA is a founding member of the
International Business Aviation Council (IBAC), which represents business
aviation at the General Assembly of the International Civil Aviation
Organization (ICAO).
Through the years the CBAA has assumed a leadership role in advocacy for
business aviation interests. In 2005 Transport Canada transferred
administrative authority to the CBAA for issuing Private Operator
Certificates, as outlined in Canadian Aviation Regulations (CAR). This
partnership has resulted in a very low accident record among corporate
members.
A dedicated, full-time staff maintains the national office, which was
moved to Ottawa in 1980. They work with the Board of Directors to handle
the needs of member companies, and to ensure that aviation continues to
grow and evolve with safety and environmental sensitivity. CBAA depends
upon a large number of member volunteers to handle regional and chapter
issues and to serve on the Board of Directors.
The annual Convention is an important part of CBAA’s program. Guest
speakers, plenary sessions and trade shows attract international
attendance. Annual awards are issued during this event to recognize the
contributions of individuals and companies.
The CBAA supports Hope Air, a non-profit volunteer organization that
arranges air transportation for Canadians in need of medical treatment.
Over the past 12 years, CBAA has donated over $115,000 to Hope Air from
the proceeds of its annual golf tournaments. In 2005, the association also
set up an annual Flight Training Scholarship for a deserving Air Cadet.
The CBAA has grown to become a key part of the business aviation
community. It provides essential support to its members and works to
ensure that aviation remains safe, dependable and efficient, not only in
Canada, but around the world.
The Canadian Business Aviation Association was presented with the Belt of
Orion Award for Excellence at ceremonies held in Ottawa on June 6, 2007.
2007 Induction
Video - The Story of
the Canadian Business Aircraft Association
Website:
www.cbaa.ca
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