Written question asked by Mike Hancock (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 9 October 2009, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 12 October 2009. It was answered by Bill Rammell (Labour) on Monday, 19 October 2009 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Military Aircraft: Helicopters

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to the answer of 16 July 2009, Official Report, columns 589-90W, on military aircraft, what plans his Department has to meet the required pilot strength in the Merlin and Chinook forces.

Answer: Required and actual strengths will both vary with time due to many factors including operational requirements, the introduction of newly trained crew on completion of training courses at set times during the year, the number of trained personnel assigned to non-flying duties (as part of the necessary broader career development), injuries, and service leavers. The helicopter fleet is managed to ensure that our operational and other commitments are met.The RAF and Royal Navy are recruiting and training sufficient personnel to ensure that the Defence Helicopter Flying School (DHFS) rotary wing training pipeline is fully stocked with trainee pilots for both Merlin and Chinook forces.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 497 c1226W; 292337
Session: 2008-09
Related items: Military Aircraft
Thursday, 16 July 2009
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects: Helicopters Military aircraft Chinook helicopters Merlin helicopters
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk