Written question asked by Tim Collins (Conservative) on Tuesday, 20 January 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 26 January 1998. It was answered by Glenda Jackson (Labour) on Monday, 26 January 1998 on behalf of the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions.

Dept of the Environment Transport and the Regions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the regulations regarding maximum permitted decibel levels and the environmental impact of private parachuting flights.

Answer: Mr. Collins: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the regulations regarding maximum permitted decibel levels and the environmental impact of private parachuting flights; and if he will make a statement. [25098] Ms Glenda Jackson: Aircraft used for parachuting are subject to the same noise certification requirements as comparable aircraft used for other purposes. Depending on local airspace constraints and the location of drop zones, the need for the aircraft to climb over a limited area can be a source of nuisance to those below. Aerodromes and aircraft operators should plan their routes, procedures and activities so as to minimize noise nuisance; subject always to the overriding requirements of safety.

Secondary information