§ 19. Lieut.-Colonel Bromley-Davenportasked the Secretary of State for Air what is the minimum height at which aircraft are permitted to fly in the Weald of Kent area; what was the minimum height allowed in the recent Cooper Challenge Trophy Race in that area; and what was the lowest height recorded during the flying of that race in which Squadron Leader Lofts was killed when he crashed while flying in an eliminating heat.
§ Mr. CrawleyFor ordinary cross-country flights Royal Air Force aircraft are not permitted to fly below 2,000 ft. except in an emergency. However, part 2299 of the Weald of Kent lies within an area authorised for low flying training, where the minimum height is determined by the officer authorising the flight. The minimum height depends on the experience of the pilot, and in Fighter Command is normally 50 feet. The height limitation laid down for the Cooper Trophy Race was from 100 feet to 1,500 feet, and there is no evidence that these limits were exceeded.
§ Lieut.-Colonel Bromley-DavenportWhilst we all deplore the tragedy which occurred during this race, and much as we appreciate the reason for holding these races and admire the men who take part in them, would it not be advisable in races of this nature in the future, where aircraft fly at such terrific speeds and at such low altitudes, to hold the turning points out to sea? Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the aircraft in this incident narrowly missed a large village and a built-up area?
§ Mr. CrawleyI expect the hon. and gallant Gentleman knows that this race has been cancelled not only for this year but for all time in its present form. We are now reviewing the whole matter of how to hold races with jet aircraft.