Goffs, NS, Canada – October 30, 2025 – Three Air Canada passenger jets are docked at gates at Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ). Another aircraft lands in the background.Shaunl/Getty Images
An experienced Air Canada captain has been set free after facing allegations of fraud for reportedly piloting numerous flights, carrying thousands of travelers, without the requisite certification, authorities informed ABC News.
Peel Regional Police in Canada will conduct a press briefing on Tuesday to provide further details regarding "Project Icarus," a fraud inquiry that led law enforcement to the pilot. The investigation was initiated following a routine verification of credentials that revealed discrepancies, according to officials.
In a formal declaration, Air Canada acknowledged the situation and stated that it "treats this matter with the utmost gravity."
"The safety of our passengers was not jeopardized by this occurrence, as all Air Canada pilots undergo mandatory refresher training every six months to confirm their flying proficiency, including an in-flight evaluation with a certified Transport Canada check-pilot annually,” the airline’s statement indicated. “Nonetheless, possessing the appropriate licensing is a crucial component of the airline sector’s comprehensive safety framework, and as such, Air Canada … has initiated a review of its pilot roster and has found no further instances of non-compliance."
The carrier mentioned that the pilot, whose identity has not been disclosed, has been issued a penalty and is no longer on the payroll of Air Canada.
The pilot is scheduled to reappear in court before the end of this month.
Sourse: abcnews.go.com