Launch Scheduled Passenger Air Transportation in Burnaby: A Practical Guide
This page lays out a practical, step-by-step path to starting a scheduled passenger air transportation business in Burnaby (NAICS 481111). You’ll get a concise overview of the nine requirements, plus the permits, licenses, and startup costs you’ll face, with a realistic timeline. We focus on actionable steps you can take today—without hype or guesswork.
Learn exactly what regulators expect. You’ll understand the nine core requirements, how to assemble a Transport Canada Air Operator Certificate (AOC) package, and how to build a compliant safety management system, crew qualifications, maintenance program, insurance, and security. We outline typical costs (licensing, insurance, aircraft leasing or purchase, maintenance, staffing) and a practical timeline from start to first flight.
Burnaby’s mix of business-friendly zoning, proximity to Vancouver’s air corridors, and a skilled aviation workforce creates prime opportunities for new scheduled services. The city’s local licensing processes align with regional aviation growth, helping you connect the Lower Mainland with timely, reliable flights.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a scheduled passenger air transportation business in Burnaby is the Air Operator Certificate (AOC). This certificate, issued by Transport Canada, is legally required to run scheduled services and you cannot operate without it—it's non-negotiable. Once you’re in the door, you’ll still need licensed pilots and crew and a solid safety plan to keep flights on track.
Operational readiness covers licensing, maintenance, and safety. Ensure all pilots and crew hold current Pilot and Crew Licensing appropriate to your fleet, and maintain your AOC conditions. Implement Aircraft Maintenance and Airworthiness programs and secure Cargo and Liability Insurance to protect passengers and operations. Also ensure WorkSafeBC coverage for your staff to meet workplace safety standards.
Business registration and tax compliance are the next steps. Start with a BC Business Number (BN) registration and, if you use a separate business name, BC Business Name Registration (Sole Proprietorship/Partnership). For taxes, register for GST/HST and Payroll Deductions, and stay compliant with ongoing reporting and remittance requirements. These registrations help keep your finances in order and ensure you can pay and remit what you owe.
Next steps: gather your documents, consult Transport Canada guidance, and consider working with a regulatory advisor to keep you on track. With the AOC in place and the right registrations, you’ll be well positioned to launch a safe, compliant scheduled passenger service in Burnaby. Take it one step at a time, build your plan, and celebrate progress as you move toward your first flight.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a scheduled passenger air transportation in Burnaby:
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Pilot and Crew Licensing RequiredCommercial pilots and crew must hold appropriate licenses from Transport Canada including commercial pilot license, airline transport pilot license, and medical certification. Transport Canada pilot licensing. Private, commercial, ATPL levels. Medical certificate. Flight training. Written and flight exams. Contact TC: 1-800-305-2059.
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Business Number (BN) Registration RequiredA 9-digit Business Number is required for most businesses operating in Canada. It is used to interact with the Canada Revenue Agency and other federal programs. Required for GST/HST, payroll, corporation income tax, and import/export accounts. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) at canada.ca. Takes 15-30 minutes. As of November 3, 2025, online registration is MANDATORY for new BNs - phone registration no longer available. You'll need: business name, address, owner SIN, business type, and start date. BN (9-digit number) issued INSTANTLY online. Available 21 hours/day, 7 days/week (closed 3-6am ET for maintenance).
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BC Business Name Registration (Sole Proprietorship/Partnership) RequiredRegistration of sole proprietorship or partnership business names with BC Registries Register sole proprietorship or partnership at bcregistry.gov.bc.ca. Name reservation: $30 (standard) or $100 (priority 1-2 days). Registration fee: $40. Total: ~$70. Name reserved for 56 days after approval. Registration is continuous (no renewal required). No name protection for sole proprietorships. Personal names operating under own name do not require registration. Contact BC Registries: 1-877-526-1526.
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Cargo and Liability Insurance ConditionalRequired for specific regulated activities. Commercial carriers must maintain adequate cargo insurance, public liability insurance, and in some cases surety bonds to cover loss, damage, and third-party claims. Cargo liability insurance for freight carriers. Transport Canada requirements. Minimum coverage levels. Interstate/international requirements. Bill of lading requirements. Contact insurance broker or Transport Canada.
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Aircraft Maintenance and Airworthiness ConditionalRequired for air emissions. Aircraft operators must maintain airworthiness standards including regular inspections, approved maintenance organizations, and compliance with airworthiness directives. Transport Canada Aircraft Maintenance Organization (AMO) certificate. CAR 573 compliance. Licensed AME personnel. Maintenance Control Manual. Quality assurance program. Facility requirements. Annual audits. Contact Transport Canada: 1-800-305-2059.
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GST/HST Registration ConditionalRequired if annual taxable revenue exceeds $30,000 (small supplier threshold). Taxi/ride-share drivers must register regardless of revenue. Businesses with gross revenues over $30,000 in any single quarter or over four consecutive quarters must register for, collect, and remit GST/HST. Small suppliers (under $30,000) may register voluntarily. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when your revenue exceeds $30,000 in any 4 consecutive quarters (small supplier threshold). Takes 15-30 minutes. You MUST register within 29 days of exceeding threshold and start charging GST/HST immediately on the sale that made you exceed it. Need your BN (or get one simultaneously). As of Nov 3, 2025, online registration is mandatory. Voluntary registration available anytime for input tax credits.
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Payroll Deductions Registration ConditionalRequired if you pay salaries, wages, or other remuneration to employees. Must register before first pay period. Required if you have employees. You must withhold Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Employment Insurance (EI), and income tax from employee wages and remit to CRA. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when you hire your first employee. Takes 15-20 minutes. You'll need your Business Number (BN) or can get one simultaneously. Payroll account (RP) added to your BN instantly. Register BEFORE your first pay date. Required to deduct CPP, EI, and income tax from employee wages. For 2025: CPP rate 5.95%, EI employee rate $1.66/$100 insurable earnings.
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WorkSafeBC Coverage and Registration ConditionalRequired if you have workers in BC. Workers compensation insurance coverage through WorkSafeBC for employers in British Columbia WorkSafeBC coverage required for most BC employers. Average base premium rate: 1.55% of assessable payroll ($1.55 per $100). Register online at worksafebc.com. Apply 30 days before starting business or hiring workers. Processing: ~10 business days. Premium rates vary by industry classification (514 classification units). COR certified employers eligible for 10% rebate. Contact: 604-276-3100 or 1-888-967-5377.
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Air Operator Certificate (AOC) ConditionalRequired for air emissions. Commercial air carriers must obtain an Air Operator Certificate from Transport Canada and comply with aviation safety standards, operations specifications, and maintenance requirements. Transport Canada Air Operator Certificate (AOC) for commercial air services. Safety Management System required. Qualified Operations Manager and Chief Pilot. Aircraft maintenance programs. Insurance requirements. Contact Transport Canada: 1-800-305-2059.
Funding & Grants
Available funding programs that may apply to your scheduled passenger air transportation:
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ACAP funds rehabilitation projects at eligible local and regional airports offering year-round scheduled commercial service. Annual budget of approximately $38–55M. Airports with under 50,000 passengers receive 100% funding (graduated reduction above that). Maximum $30M per application. Annual deadline June 1 for following program year.
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