HC Deb 14 November 1991 vol 198 c649W
Mr. Straw

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what restrictions are imposed on the flight of hot air balloons over built-up areas; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. McLoughlin

Rule 5, paragraph (1)(a) of the Rules of the Air Regulations 1991 provides that an aircraft—a term which includes a hot air balloon—shall not fly over any congested area of a city, town or settlement below (i) such height as would enable the aircraft to alight clear of the area and without danger to persons or property on the surface, in the event of failure of a power unit…; or (ii) a height of 1,500 feet above the highest fixed object within 2,000 feet of the aircraft: whichever is the higher".

The term "congested area" is defined in article 106 of the Air Navigation Order 1989 in relation to a city, town or settlement as being any area which is substantially used for residential, industrial, commercial or recreational purposes".