HC Deb 21 December 1961 vol 651 cc196-7W
Commander Courtney

asked the Minister of Aviation why Ministry of Aviation personnel were not available at London Airport at 10.30 on Monday, 27th November, to remove the aircraft gangway, thus delaying Flight B.E.466; and whether, to avoid a repetition of such delays in similar circumstances, he will permit British European Airways personnel to push gangways clear of aircraft when this is necessary.

Mr. Thorneycroft

Ministry of Aviation personnel were not available at the aircraft in question because the airline failed to notify the Ministry Aircraft Step Service of the revised time of departure. When aircraft steps have to be removed, there is nothing to prevent airline personnel from doing so.