HC Deb 22 January 1971 vol 809 cc368-9W
Mr. Leslie Huckfield

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many accidents have occurred in connection with acrobatic and stunt display flying in close formation in each of the years from 1960 to 1970.

Mr. Anthony Grant

During the period in question there have been two accidents to British registered civil aircraft flying in close formation in connection with displays but neither involved aerobatic flight. The first occurred in 1962 and the second in 1970.

Mr. Leslie Huckfield

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what are the regulations governing acrobatic and stunt display flying, particularly in close formation; and what limits are imposed over populated areas.

Mr. Anthony Grant

General provisions concerning civil aircraft participating in exhibitions of flying are contained in Rule 5 of the Rules of the Air and Air Traffic Control Regulations, 1970 while those concerning the avoidance of collisions are contained in Rule 18. Rule 19 of the same instrument among other matters prohibits aerobatic manoeuvres by civil aircraft over the congested area of any city, town or settlement.