§ Dr. Glynasked the Secretary of State for Defence why the airspace available for private light aircraft has been restricted, particularly in the case of Upper Heyford; and whether he is considering alternative sites for the training of service pilots.
§ Mr. LeeThe use of United Kingdom airspace is kept under continual review in order to identify measures which may be necessary to maintain standards of safety. In the particular case of Upper Heyford a working group involving representatives of all interested parties recommended the creation of an area access of which would be controlled by a requirement, before entry, to communicate by radio with Upper Heyford air traffic control. Provided this requirement is met there will be no restriction on access to airspace around Upper Heyford. To safeguard the interests of private aviation this arrangement will be subject to review after a one year trial.
There are no plans to identify alternative sites for the training of service pilots.