Written question asked by John Grogan (Labour) on Thursday, 18 March 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 30 March 1999. It was answered by Glenda Jackson (Labour) on Tuesday, 30 March 1999 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 plans he has to improve the safety of passengers in balloons. - Includes figures.

Answer: Mr. Grogan: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to improve the safety of passengers in balloons. [78319] Ms Glenda Jackson: The operation of commercial passenger balloons is regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority Safety Regulation Group (CAA SRG). While the safety standards and requirements for these flights are well-established they remain under constant scrutiny by the CAA. Consequently, ballooning operates to a very high safety standard and there has been only one fatal accident in the last 10 years. One additional safety measure to be implemented soon will require Balloon Air Operator Certificate Holders to produce and operate to a Company Safety Management System. The CAA will provide advice and assistance in establishing this system which is part of an introductory programme for all aircraft undertaking public transport operations.

Secondary information