§ Mr. Parryasked the Secretary of State for Trade if he is satisfied with the airworthiness of the DC-10 aeroplanes used by British Airlines; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ParkinsonThe airworthiness of aircraft on the British register is the responsibility of the Civil Aviation Authority. Following the action by the American Federal Aviation Administration the Authority has suspended for the time being the United Kingdom certificates of airworthiness for DC-10 aircraft on the British register. The CAA is in close touch with the FAA with a view to establishing the facts relating to the American decision. It assures me that these aircraft will not be cleared to fly again until it is satisfied that they are fit to do so.