Calgary 
Santa Claus has officially received the green light to travel across Canadian airspace, following a review that briefly appeared on national radar systems as a mystery.
YouTube Screenshot/ Credit: Transport Canada
In this year’s playful video release from Transport Canada, the moment unfolds with an urgent phone call to Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon as an unidentified object is detected moving quickly over Canada.
“It’s moving fast over Canadian airspace, and all attempts to contact it have failed,” the Prime Minister reports. As the object approaches from the North Pole, MacKinnon responds, “I think I know who this is,” before requesting access to “the secret room.”
The unidentified object was soon confirmed to be Santa Claus, travelling with his nine reindeer. Direct radio contact followed. “Santa, this is Steve MacKinnon, Minister of Transport for Canada,” MacKinnon said. “Make sure you stay on your flight trajectory and look after the reindeer.” Santa replied simply, “Thank you, Canada! Ho! Ha! Ha!”
The authorization was granted after Santa and his crew successfully completed Transport Canada’s annual certification and inspection process. Civil Aviation Safety Inspectors travelled north to examine the sleigh, reviewing communications, navigation systems, de-icing capability, landing gear, and overall safety. Inspectors also ensured that all reindeer harnesses were properly secured and confirmed that Rudolph’s nose was bright enough to guide the flight.
The Prime Minister had earlier reminded MacKinnon of his responsibility to maintain a safe and secure aviation sector as millions of children across the country await Santa’s journey from coast to coast to coast.
With inspections complete, MacKinnon confirmed the outcome: “Santa Claus is now authorized to do his deliveries in Canada.”
Transport Canada also noted that aviation safety rules apply to everyone during the holidays, including drone operators flying at night, who are required to use proper lighting to avoid interfering with aircraft or Santa’s sleigh.
With clearance secured, Santa’s sleigh bells are now ringing as he moves through the night sky on his deliveries, while NORAD’s Santa tracking system is live for families following his journey.
