HC Deb 05 December 1927 vol 211 cc995-6W
Colonel DAY

asked the Secretary of State for Air at what periods compasses used on aeroplanes are regularly examined?

Sir S. HOARE

The compasses of Royal Air Force machines are checked, and, if necessary, adjusted periodically as a matter of routine once every four weeks if possible, but on no account less frequently than once every eight weeks. In addition, they have to be examined and adjusted before an oversea or a long cross-country flight and on a variety of other special occasions which are set out in considerable detail in the regulations. The compasses of civil aircraft plying for public service have to be exam- ined and certified within the 24 hours preceding the flight. In addition, the compasses of all civil aircraft are inspected before renewal of the certificate of airworthiness.