Aviation safety is the focus of Transport Canada Civil Aviation and is largely achieved by the aviation community through voluntary compliance with the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs). When voluntary compliance is not forthcoming, the Aviation Enforcement Branch will take enforcement action.

The Minister of Transport is responsible for the development of regulations and standards, licensing and certification, promotion and security of services relating to aeronautics and for ensuring aviation safety. As well there is also a legal responsibility for the Minister to ensure compliance with the aviation regulations

The Aviation Enforcement Branch was established to supervise and administer the enforcement mandate established in the ICAO Convention. Enforcement, and the administering of subsequent penalties, provided by a legal framework, has been delegated to enforcement inspectors.