§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is his Department's policy concerning low flying in Wales; and what is the minimum height permitted for such flights. [40847]
§ Mr. SoamesLow flying is permitted throughout the United Kingdom, except in controlled airspace, over major conurbations and in other locations which are to be avoided for safety or environmental reasons. The normal minimum height for military fixed-wing aircraft, except light propeller driven aircraft, is 250 ft minimum separation distance. A small amount of operational low flying by such United Kingdom military aircraft is permitted down to 100 ft minimum separation distance in three tactical training areas, one of which is in central Wales. Light propeller driven aircraft are permitted to fly to a minimum height of 50 ft. There is no minimum height restriction for helicopters.
§ Dr. ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent discussions he has had with his German counterpart concerning low flying by British aircraft over German territory; and what is the minimum height permitted for British aircraft flying in Germany. [40845]
§ Mr. SoamesThere have been no such recent discussions. The normal minimum height permitted for Royal Air Force fixed-wing aircraft flying in Germany is 1,000 ft; however, a lower limit of 500 ft is permitted for a number of major NATO exercises.