§ 39. Mr. Michael McNair-Wilsonasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will make a statement about the stage which Euro Control has reached in evaluating the comparative merits of the hyperbolic area coverage and vertical omni-range and directional area coverage air navigation systems.
§ Mr. Goronwy RobertsThe first phase of trials of a hyperbolic area coverage system has been completed and a report is in process of completion. Trials of a vertical omni-range and directional system are due to start later this year.
§ Mr. McNair-WilsonDoes the hon. Gentleman agree that, with the increasing rise in civil aviation, the fixed beacon system alone is no longer adequate? Would he make representations to this effect to his European colleagues?
§ Mr. RobertsI do not agree that it is inadequate. I agree that it is right for us to press for an area navigation system, partly for maximum utilisation of air space, and partly for safe separation.
§ Mr. Leslie HuckfieldIs my hon. Friend aware that both B.O.A.C. and B.E.A. are already fitted with this equipment? What steps will be take to extend the fitting and requirement for fitting of this equipment to the independent sector of British aviation?
§ Mr. RobertsIt is true that substantial sections of the British airline industry are fitted with this system. We constantly point to its advantages, but it is commercially for the operators to decide whether they can usefully add this to their equipment.