Santa Claus cleared for a safe take-off

Up, up, and away

NORTH POLE, Canada, Dec. 23, 2014 /CNW/ - Transport Canada is pleased to announce that Santa Claus has successfully passed his pre-flight inspection and is set for a safe take-off. His cargo has been screened, his sleigh loaded, and his flight plan filed. Santa and his team of reindeer are expected to leave the North Pole, which is located in Canada's north, on time to make his annual Christmas deliveries.

This year, the elves have really upped their game. Not only does Santa have a Wi‑Fi-equipped sleigh and an app to manage his Naughty or Nice list, but he's been outfitted with a new fleet of drones. Giving Rudolf a much needed break, Santa's drones will help guide his sleigh and scout out the safest and most efficient route. Of course, the elves trained Santa on all the necessary safety features and applied in advance for his SFOC—Santa's Flight Operations Certificate.

Like all pilots, Santa must undergo an annual physical to keep his license. We are pleased to report that he passed with flying colours.

Quick Facts

• Track Santa and the reindeer as they make their way around the world thanks to the NORAD Tracks Santa website (www.noradsanta.org) and #NORADSanta hashtag.
• Santa wants to make sure that everyone who asked for a drone this year knows how to fly it safely and legally. Read his list of safety tips at www.tc.gc.ca/SafetyFirst.
• Santa consistently impresses his pilot friends with his uncanny ability for safe take-offs and landings in urban centres and flying in whiteout conditions.
• Santa's pre-flight checklist includes looking for ice build-ups, checking Rudolph's nose, and ensuring that the elves on board are informed about safety procedures.

Quotes

"On the big night, I take comfort knowing that my husband will deliver toys to all good little boys and girls safely and securely. Now that Santa can use his smartphone on board, I'll be able to follow his journey as he posts updates to his Instagram account at each stop."

Mrs. Claus
Second-in-Command, North Pole

Transport Canada is online at www.tc.gc.ca. Subscribe to e-news or stay connected through RSS, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Flickr to keep up to date on the latest from Transport Canada.

This news release may be made available in alternative formats for persons living with visual disabilities.

SOURCE: Transport Canada

Transport Canada, Media Relations, 613-993-0055