§ Mr. JamiesonTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement about the instructions given to MOD personnel involved in training flights from Plymouth airport in the event of engine failure immediately after take-off.
§ Mr. HanleyA pilot can take a number of actions in the event of an engine failure immediately after take-off. If there is sufficient space ahead, the pilot will land on the airfield. If, however, there is insufficient space remaining, the pilot will by that time have gained sufficient height or speed or both to enable him to turn towards a suitable clear area to land or to turn back to the airfield to land. The decision as to which procedure is adopted is a matter for the professional judgment of the pilot at the time of the incident. Experienced aircrew, well versed in the engine failure procedure, are on board all training flights from Plymouth airport. The engine failure procedure is also practised regularly as part of routine flying, with the turn-back procedure normally being practised away from the airfield to reduce noisy disturbance. Over its 30 years operating experience at Plymouth airport, the Royal Navy has maintained an excellent safety record.