A senior pilot formerly employed by Air Canada has been released after being arrested on fraud-related charges stemming from allegations that he operated hundreds of commercial flights without holding the required pilot certification, authorities said.
Investigators with the Peel Regional Police are expected to provide additional details during a news conference on Tuesday regarding “Project Icarus,” the investigation that led to the arrest.
According to officials, the inquiry began after a routine review of pilot credentials uncovered irregularities in the individual’s licensing records. Further investigation allegedly revealed discrepancies that prompted a broader fraud probe.
Authorities have not publicly identified the pilot, who is accused of transporting thousands of passengers on numerous flights despite allegedly lacking the proper aviation certification required for the role.
In a statement, Air Canada acknowledged the incident and emphasized that it takes the matter seriously.
The airline said passenger safety was not compromised because all company pilots are required to complete extensive recurring training and competency evaluations. These include mandatory proficiency training every six months and annual flight assessments conducted by Transport Canada-certified examiners.
“Safety was not compromised by this incident because all pilots at Air Canada undergo mandatory recurrent training every six months to validate their flying competency, including a flight check with a certified Transport Canada check-pilot every 12 months,” the airline said.
However, the carrier noted that proper licensing remains a critical component of aviation safety and regulatory compliance.
Following the discovery, Air Canada conducted an internal review of its pilot workforce and reported that it found no other instances of licensing irregularities.
The airline confirmed that the pilot involved has been fined and is no longer employed by the company.
The accused is scheduled to return to court later this month as legal proceedings continue.
Officials are expected to release further information about the scope of the alleged fraud and the investigation during Tuesday’s briefing.
