HC Deb 22 November 1995 vol 267 cc145-6W
Mr. Allen

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what penalties exist for those who exceed the night flight maximum into Heathrow; and if he will list the occasions when such penalties have been levied in each of the past five years. [9]

Mr. Norris

The current night restrictions regime, which began in winter 1993–94, includes provision for end of season flexibility. This allows a carry-over of 10 per cent. of the movements limits if there is a surplus and anticipation of up to 10 per cent. of the next season's movements in the event of overrun. Any excess overrun would be penalised in the following season at double the amount of the excess.

Under the previous regime, if the maximum number of movements at Heathrow was exceeded by 50 or fewer movements, the limit for the following season was reduced by the same number; if by more than 50 movements, the limit for the following season was reduced by a total of 50 plus twice the number of movements in excess of 50. Movements underused in a season could be carried forward to the following season, subject to a maximum of 50.

In two seasons within the last five years, the number of night movements in the relevant period has exceeded the limit but has been within the end of season flexibility arrangements. In the winter 1992–93 season, there were 3,078 movements, of which 3,000 counted against the limit, 43 movements scored against the amount carried forward from the previous season, and the remaining 35 movements were deducted from the movements limit for the summer 1993 season. In winter 1994–95, there were 2,668 movements; the limit was 2,550 but the excess was within the amount carried forward from the previous season.

In all other seasons within the last five years, the number of night movements has been within the limits.

Mr. Allen

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many aircraft are allowed to fly into Heathrow between 23.30 and 0600. [8]

Mr. Norris

In my announcement of 16 August 1995, I confirmed the night flying restrictions at Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted. These restrictions include a control on the number of aircraft movements permitted by season. The movements limit for the winter season at Heathrow is 2,550, the limit for the summer season is 3,250.

In addition, the movements of aircraft which are exempt from the night restrictions are unrestricted. Exempt aircraft are jet aircraft with a maximum certificated weight not exceeding 11,600 kg and those propeller aircraft which on the basis of their noise data are classified at less than 87 EPNdB.

The arrangements for dispensations in various exceptional circumstances also continue to apply. A copy of the relevant guidelines was placed in the House Library on 6 May 1994.