News
Santa passes tests with flying colours

Dec. 21, 2007, Ottawa, Ont. – Transport Canada announced today that
Santa has passed his medical test with flying colours. While his physician did
suggest to Santa (again) that he eat fewer cookies, his blood pressure and his
eyesight are as good as ever. Regular medical tests are part of the
requirements that pilots need to meet to obtain and keep their licence.
       
Pilots are also required to show their flying ability and knowledge
through a number of manoeuvres. This is done through a flight simulator test
and/or a check ride. Santa Claus was put through his paces and also passed his
flight test this morning, at the Transport Canada hangar at the Ottawa
International Airport.
       
"I am very pleased that Santa, his reindeer and his sleigh have passed
these important checks," said the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of
Transport, Infrastructure and Communities. "Transport Canada has an important
role: to help Santa deliver his precious cargo safely."
       
A Transport Canada inspector travelled to the North Pole to conduct
Santa's check ride. The inspector checked the equipment by walking around the
sleigh, checking the harnesses, the landing gear and even Rudolph's nose. He
also verified Santa's logbook and made sure all of Santa's paperwork was in
order. Our inspector noted that Santa even had the elves wash the sleigh and
groom the reindeer.
       
Santa has updated his instrument panel to help his nine reindeer power
the fire-engine red sleigh. Since the sleigh is certified by Transport Canada,
the department approved modifications to the sleigh's design, so Santa Claus
can take advantage of newer technologies in case Rudolph's nose malfunctions.
       
Now that Santa has passed his medical and flight tests, Transport Canada
is pleased to announce that he is ready to take flight again this year. This
is great news for millions of children and Santa Claus, as he prepares for his
most important flight of the year this holiday season!