Transport Canada Launches TC AIR App: New Aviation Document Booklets Application Process

Transport Canada has launched TC AIR, its first-ever mobile app, designed to simplify the application process for Aviation Document Booklets (ADBs). This new digital service will enable student pilots, pilots, flight engineers, and air traffic controllers to apply for a new ADB or renew an existing one quickly and conveniently, all through their mobile devices. TC Air is available for both Apple and Android users.

Key Features 

TC AIR will streamline the ADB application process, eliminating the need for passport-style photos, verifiers (for renewals), and mailing costs. Applicants can now submit their requests in just minutes and free of charge from anywhere at any time. This initiative not only aims at making document management efficient and accessible for aviation professionals but significantly reduces administrative burdens and simplifies processes for Transport Canada. The TC Air App also digitalize the aircraft registration process and filing of Digital Aeronautical Assessment Forms with Transport Canada.

Key Updates on ADB Process

Enhanced Guidance: ADB webpage on Transport Canada’s website has been updated with comprehensive guidance and clearer service expectations to reduce uncertainty and streamline the process.

Duplicate Applications: If a paper application has already been submitted, Transport Canada has advised not to submit a digital application to prevent processing delays.

No Current Backlogs: Transport Canada has confirmed that it holds no existing delays in processing, printing, or mailing ADBs.

• Revised Processing Timelines
  Applications submitted through TC AIR will be processed within 30 business day. However, processing timeline for paper applications will be 60 business days.
  
• ADB Document Format
  While the application process is now digital, the ADB itself remains a physical document.
  
• Verifier Requirements
  Eligibility criteria for verifiers differ between the mobile app and the paper application process. Applicants should review the updated requirements on the ADB webpage.
  
• Student Pilots 
  They can submit an initial ADB application before meeting all Canadian Aviation Regulations (CAR) requirements. In such cases, Transport Canada will hold issuance until the licence application is processed.

Key Deadlines 

• Exemption NCR-011-2024: This exemption expires on March 31, 2025, and will not be extended. After this date, all ADBs will strictly adhere to the expiry dates indicated in the booklets.
  
• Renewal Timeline: To ensure a seamless renewal, applicants are strongly advised to submit their ADB renewal applications 60 to 90 days before the booklet’s expiry date.
  
• Lost or Destroyed ADBs: TC AIR mobile app currently does not support requests for replacing a lost or destroyed ADB. Applicants needing a replacement should refer to the updated guidance on Transport Canada’s website.
  

Conclusion

The launch of TC AIR further aligns with Transport Canada’s commitment to enhancing services for Canadians and improving operational efficiency. This app arrives at a critical time, as a large number of ADB holders approach their 10-year renewal mark. By digitizing the application process, Transport Canada is strengthening operational resilience, improving processing efficiency, enhancing the user experience and adapting to increasing demand with greater agility. The launch of TC AIR also marks a significant step forward in the digital transformation of Transport Canada’s aviation services. By offering a faster, more convenient, and cost-free application process, this new app improves efficiency while maintaining the integrity of ADB issuance.