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Written question asked by Tim Loughton (Conservative) on Monday, 4 March 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 7 March 2024 (named day). It was answered by Anthony Browne (Conservative) on Thursday, 7 March 2024 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Airspace: Horn of Africa

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment he has made of the implications for (a) his policies and (b) the safety of overflying British aircraft of recent Traffic Collision Avoidance System events over air space controlled by Somalia and Somaliland.

Answer

The safety and security of British airlines and the travelling public are a top priority for my Department. Management of airspace is a sovereign responsibility and it is for airlines to take decisions on routings. DfT provide additional advice to UK airlines operating outside of the UK where we deem it necessary

In relation to Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) events within Somali airspace, a high number of TCAS events may indicate an inadequate Air Traffic Control provision within the area but it also means that the protections are working and aircraft are being kept separated. Should an aircraft’s TCAS be unserviceable, then protection is still provided by aircraft with a serviceable TCAS. It is also of note that this airspace is not routinely or regularly used by UK operators.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
16572
Session
2023-24
Subjects
Aircraft Safety Somalia Somaliland Airspace
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk