The Ottawa International Airport Authority (Authority), in collaboration with NAV CANADA, has introduced a new Instrument Landing System Special Authorization Category II (ILS SA CAT II) procedure – making YOW the first airport in Canada to offer this enhanced capability for commercial aircraft operations.

The implementation precedes the upcoming Transport Canada regulatory changes to decrease the minimum visibility required for pilots to attempt an approach and landing in poor weather. By leveraging advanced flight deck technologies, the ILS SA CAT II procedure allows aircraft to land safely with lower ceiling and visibility requirements than traditional systems.

This improvement will allow aircraft to land in conditions that previously resulted in diversions or delays, adding 24.5 hours of operational availability each year. By reducing weather‑related disruptions and improving travel reliability, this enhancement represents a meaningful investment in the passenger experience.

Together, these advancements underscore YOW’s commitment to safety, innovation, and operational resilience within Canada’s aviation ecosystem.