§ Mrs. DunwoodyTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many inspections have been undertaken by(a) the Civil Aviation Authority and (b) his Department into aircraft leased by aircraft operators in each of the last five years; and if he will make a statement. [26908]
§ Mr. NorrisThe Civil Aviation Authority does not believe that additional safety checks are necessary on aircraft leased between UK operators. Wet leases of non-UK registered aircraft by UK operators are permitted only in order to meet temporary needs. If necessary, and requested by the UK operator, the CAA may carry out an audit of the lessor airline to confirm its safety standards.