§ Miss McIntoshTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what recent representations he has received concerning security at small airfields in the UK; and if he will make a statement; [85521]
(2) what measures the Government are taking to improve security at small airfields in the UK; and if he will make a statement. [85520]
§ Mr. JamiesonAlthough we received few representations regarding the security of smaller aerodromes in the UK in the immediate aftermath of September 2001 attacks, we immediately tightened the security regime for commercial flights by small aircraft. I have received no more recent representations.
Prior to those attacks, commercial aircraft of less than 15 tonnes (maximum take off weight) were outside the requirements of the National Aviation Security Programme. That exemption has been removed, and aircraft of any weight are now subject to the programme.
The operators of such aircraft and the managers of the aerodromes from which they operate have been issued with the relevant directions and guidance, and Department for Transport Inspectors monitor compliance and undertake enforcement, prioritising those locations where the risks are judged greatest. As with all aspects of the regime, these measures are kept under review.