Arctic Control Area
The Arctic Control Area is controlled airspace above FL230 covering the northern regions of Canada, generally north of 70°N. It extends from FL230 to FL600 and provides IFR control service for aircraft transiting Arctic and transpolar routes.
Transpolar Operations
Transpolar flights between North America, Europe, and Asia transit the Arctic Control Area and offer airlines significant fuel and time savings. NAV CANADA coordinates with Russian and Icelandic ATC for oceanic handoffs. Communication often relies on HF radio or SATCOM due to VHF line-of-sight limitations at high latitudes.
Navigation Challenges
Near the North Magnetic Pole, magnetic compasses become unreliable. Aircraft use grid navigation referenced to True North. MNPS (Minimum Navigation Performance Specifications) apply in portions of Arctic airspace.
Related Terms
See also: Northern Domestic Airspace, Grid Navigation, MNPS.