Governance, Scope & Responsibility

This section outlines the regulatory framework, operational control model, and responsibility structure for Air Canada Virtual Airline operations.

Regulatory Framework

ItemProvision
Regulatory BasisCanadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) Subpart 705, Transport Canada Advisory Circulars, ICAO Annexes 2, 6, 11, 14.
Operational ControlType B dispatch – shared between Dispatcher (virtual) and Pilot‑in‑Command (PIC).
Manual Hierarchy1. Aircraft QRH / ECAM / EICAS; 2. AFM; 3. This ASOP; 4. Company Notices & Bulletins.
Deviation AuthorityPIC may deviate from SOPs when safety necessitates. Deviation must be logged in post‑flight report.
Amendment ControlFlight Ops Mgr issues electronic change notices. Version & date appear in front matter.

Pilot-in-Command Authority

The Pilot-in-Command (PIC) has the final authority and responsibility for the operation and safety of the aircraft. This authority extends to:

  1. Making operational decisions regarding weather, route, and alternate airports
  2. Deviating from standard procedures when necessary for safety
  3. Determining fuel requirements beyond the minimum prescribed
  4. Accepting or refusing aircraft with mechanical discrepancies

Operational Control Model

Air Canada Virtual Airline operates under a Type B dispatch system where:

  • Operational control is shared between the PIC and dispatcher
  • Flight release requires both PIC and dispatcher approval
  • The dispatcher prepares the operational flight plan (OFP)
  • The PIC makes the final decision on operational matters
  • Both the PIC and dispatcher monitor flight progress and weather conditions

Documentation Standards

All pilots must maintain access to current versions of:

  1. This ASOP manual
  2. Aircraft operating manuals specific to their type
  3. Current navigation charts for planned routes
  4. Company bulletins and notices

Regulatory Compliance

While operating within a simulation environment, all Virtual Air Canada pilots are expected to:

  1. Comply with Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) appropriate to our operations
  2. Follow ICAO procedures for international operations
  3. Adhere to local airport and airspace regulations
  4. Respect the rules of the simulation networks (VATSIM, IVAO, etc.)

Next Section: Safety Culture & CRM

Continue to learn about Crew Resource Management and the Threat & Error Management model