HC Deb 08 April 1982 vol 21 c488W
Mr. Ralph Howell

asked the Secretary of State for Trade whether there are any technical difficulties which prevent the towing of banners by fixed wing aircraft.

Mr. Sproat

I am advised by the Civil Aviation Authority, which has executive responsibility for technical safety matters, that there is no particular difficulty. The activity could be safely regulated in the same way as other aviation activities. This is already the case in many other countries in the Western world, where advertisements on aerial banners are permissible.

Mr. Ralph Howell

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what are the current regulations concerning the towing of banners by aircraft.

Mr. Sproat

The towing of a banner which bears no communications would be regulated for safety purposes under the Air Navigation Order. However, under the Civil Aviation (Licensing) Act 1960, it is illegal to use a banner towed by an aircraft for advertising purposes.