§ Mrs. DunwoodyTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he expects the International Civil Aviation Organisation to complete its assessment of Thailand's ability to meet international aviation standards; and what advice he has given to UK passengers regarding the safety of airlines registered in Thailand. [14426]
§ Mr. BowisThe International Civil Aviation Organisation safety assessment of Thailand is complete and a report is awaited. We continue to issue permits for Thai-registered aircraft to operate services to the UK. Where we have concerns about the safety standards of an airline, we pursue this through aircraft ramp checks and direct consultation with the national aviation authority concerned. If these investigations show that there is a failure to meet international minimum safety standards, we will take action to refuse, vary, suspend or revoke as appropriate these operating permits. To date, my 71W Department has not asked for a ramp check to be conducted on any Thai-registered aircraft operating to the UK.