§ Mr. MacdonaldTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if the Western Isles are included in the revised night low flying system introduced in 1989; and what regulations are in force concerning carrying out of mock attacks or practice approaches at airfields in the Western Isles by military aircraft conducting night low flying in the area.
§ Mr. NeubertThe area of the Western Isles constituency is not specifically allocated for use in the structure of the revised night low flying system but night low flying activity may take place in the area under the same general regulations as apply elsewhere in the United Kingdom. Pilots wishing to carry out simulated airfield attacks or practice approaches at civil aerodromes, including Stornoway and Benbecula in the Western Isles, must obtain any necessary clearance from the relevant controlling authorities.
§ Mr. MacdonaldTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what are the numbers and types of aircraft which will be operating in and around the Highlands restricted area as part of Exercise JMC 90/1 on Wednesday 21 February; what minimum height has been authorised for fixed-wing aircraft taking part in this activity; and how many low-level sorties are planned as part of this activity.
§ Mr. NeubertOn Wednesday 21 February, the highland restricted area (HRA) will be activated as is usual for the purpose of terrain following radar training. Buccaneer, Hunter, Canberra, Falcon, Tornado, F-111, and some air defence and maritime patrol aircraft are expected to participate in Exercise JMC 90/1 in and around the HRA; the exact numbers of aircraft will depend on prevailing weather conditions and operational considerations. Some helicopter activity is also planned. Use of the HRA itself will be allocated as necessary to meet exercise requirements. The minimum height authorised for fixed-wing aircraft over land during the exercise will be 250 feet and some 75 fixed-wing low level sorties are anticipated in the area concerned.