HC Deb 06 May 1964 vol 694 c161W
51. Mr. Dudley Smith

asked the Minister of Aviation if he is aware that under certain flying conditions Runway 26 at Northolt Royal Air Force airfield can be confused by airline pilots with Runway 23 at London Airport, five miles away; and what steps he is taking to eliminate this hazard to air safety.

52. Mr. Skeffington

asked the Minister of Aviation in what circumstances on 28th April a Boeing 707, for a period before landing, mistook the Royal Air Force Station, Northolt, for London Airport; and what steps are being taken to prevent confusion in the future.

Mr. Marten

Inquiries into the incident on 28th April are now proceeding with the company. Navigational aids already exist to assist pilots to approach the correct runway, and there are procedures to check that they are doing so. We also plan to install Instrumental Landing System on Runway 23 and this will be an additional safeguard

Mr. Lee

asked the Minister of Aviation whether he will have Instrumental Landing System installed on Runway 23 at London Airport.

Mr. Marten

Yes. Action is already being taken.

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