§ 60. Mr. Orbachasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he will stop low-flying aircraft using the north-east entry to London Airport.
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation (Mr. Airey Neave)No, Sir. In westerly wind conditions, all aircraft must approach London Airport from the east. In order to line up for their final approach, a considerable proportion of this traffic must fly over the area to the north-east of the airport.
§ Mr. OrbachThe Joint Parliamentary Secretary must be aware of the intense irritation and annoyance caused to many 1222 people in my constituency and neighbouring constituencies, and of the danger that threatens them from low-flying aircraft. Surely he will do something to impress pilots and navigators with the right way to go about landing their aircraft.
§ Mr. NeaveThe height of the aircraft is dictated by the air traffic control requirements from London Airport and by the approach procedures which are followed. Since these aircraft are using the Watford homing area, it is inevitable that they should fly over the hon. Member's constituency.
§ Mr. OrbachIs the Minister aware that the Post Office Research Station at Dollis Hill stands 600 feet above sea level and that aircraft have been seen flying immediately over it? From the ground they appear just a few feet over it. Does that not suggest that steps should be taken to prevent what might be a very serious and dangerous accident?