Transport Canada is happy to announce that the Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, has cleared Santa Claus for take-off as he prepares for this year's round-the-world flight to deliver presents to millions of children.
Once again, Transport Canada officials have inspected Santa's sleigh and validated his pilot's license before he takes off on Christmas Eve.
Officials inspected the sleigh navigation and safety systems, harnesses, landing gear, onboard navigation equipment and, of course, Rudolph's nose.
Santa was reminded of the importance of being well-rested before flying, and to do detailed pre-flight checks that include looking for ice buildup on the sleigh and reindeer, and reminded not to be distracted by eating too many Christmas cookies.
Now that Santa has passed his medical and flight tests, he is once again ready to take to the skies.
"I am delighted to clear Santa for flight in Canadian airspace to take to the skies safely this Christmas Eve,” said Garneau.
“I want to remind Santa and all Canadians to drive safely in our Canadian winter conditions. I wish everyone safe and happy travels this holiday season."
Santa's team of engineer elves has been working with Transport Canada on an innovative new project. This year, Santa's sleigh features new driver assistance technology which will make travelling across the world even safer.
Transport Canada has been partnering with experts from government, organizations, industry and academia on this technology as well additional safe driving innovations such as connected and automated vehicles, and zero- emission vehicles. Learning about Santa's sleigh driver assistance technology has been a dream for the road safety engineers.
During this holiday season, Minister Garneau and Santa Claus want to remind all drivers of the need to be alert, well rested and not impaired by alcohol or drugs, including cannabis.
You can track Santa and the reindeer on the NORAD Tracks Santa website and on Twitter following the #NORADSanta hashtag.
