§ 10. Mr. Rankinasked the Minister of Aviation what steps he is taking to ensure that aircraft flown by private pilots will be equipped with sufficient navigational aids to provide safety for themselves and other aircraft.
§ Mr. RipponPrivate aircraft must always carry the basic navigational instruments. In controlled air space they must, unless the weather allows visual flying, also carry radio so that they can comply with control instructions. In traffic zones they must carry this apparatus in all weathers.
§ Mr. RankinIs the hon. Member not aware that recently a Messenger aircraft appeared above London Airport, it seems with neither navigational nor cockpit lighting, and, in view of that, all activities were suspended at the airport for a considerable time? What is the Minister prepared to do to try to encourage a greater sense of flying discipline among the private clubs?
§ Mr. RipponThe circumstances of the flight to which the hon. Member refers are being investigated, but I do not think it in any sense affects the answer which I have given.