§ Mr. McCrindleasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he has had discussions with the Civil Aviation Authority or manufacturers regarding the safety of aircraft such as the Airbus 310, the Boeing 767 and other two-engined aircraft to fly on transatlantic routes; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. David MitchellI have not discussed this subject with the Civil Aviation Authority or manufacturers. The safety of public transport operations is primarily a matter for the authority. At present the United Kingdom in effect limits the operation of twin engine public transport aircraft to routes which are at all times within 90 minutes flying time (both engines operating) of an aerodrome at which a safe landing can be made. The introduction of new generation big twins such as the Boeing 767 with much extended range capability calls for a review of the operating safety criteria and requires international discussion and agreement. I understand that the International Civil Aviation Organisation is setting up machinery to study the problem.