§ Mr. GoodladTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many night flights have(a) been authorised and (b) taken place in the current year and each of the last three years at (i) Gatwick, (ii) Heathrow and (iii) Manchester airports.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyQuota and actual movement information for the three airports are as follows:
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Gatwick Heathrow Manchester Quota Actual Quota Actual Quota Actual 1986–87 Winter 1,950 1,622 3,150 2,746 — 501 1987 Summer 4,300(60) 4,276(50) 3,650(60) 2,002(33) 5,800 6,028 1987–88 Winter 1,950(30) 1,930(20) 3,150(30) 2,696(23) — 674 1988 Summer 4,430(60) —(—) 2,750(60) —(—) 6,760 — Notes:
1. Figures in brackets are delayed noisy movements subject to special quota.
2. Figures for Manchester airport provided by Manchester Airport plc. Winter night jet operations at Manchester airport are not subject to quota restrictions.
3. The current summer season did not end until 23 October and actual movement information is not yet available.
4. At Heathrow and Gatwick the night noise restrictions permit the airport manager to exempt flights from the restrictions if they are delayed by widespread and prolonged disruption of air traffic. Gatwick Airport Ltd. approved the exemption of 612 movements in the summer season 1987. These are additional to the figures already mentioned.
§ Mr. GoodladTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will impose a ceiling on the number of night flights to and from Manchester airport; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyNo. Control of night flights at Manchester Airport is the responsibility of the airport operator.