Former Air Canada pilot arrested for flying without required certification

Geoffrey Wall, a former Air Canada pilot, was arrested on June 1, 2025, following a police investigation dubbed "Project Icarus." Authorities allege that Wall operated as a captain for nearly 17 years without holding the mandatory Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL-A), which was required for his promotion in 2009. Although he possessed a valid commercial pilot license throughout his 27-year career, he reportedly failed to obtain the specific certification needed for the captain position. Between 2009 and 2025, Wall completed over 900 domestic and international flights piloting Boeing 767, 777, and 787 aircraft. During this period, he earned approximately 2 million dollars in salary. Irregularities were discovered during a routine qualifications check in 2025, leading Air Canada to notify regulators and initiate an investigation. Wall retired in 2025 prior to the commencement of the official probe. Air Canada stated that the safety of passengers was not compromised, as the airline mandates rigorous training for all pilots.