Question to the Department for Transport:
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent discussions he has had with the Civil Aviation Authority on commercial pressures in the offshore helicopter transport sector; and if he will make a statement.
As discussed in the recent Westminster Hall debate on this issue, offshore helicopter services provide a vital link to ensure the viability of the UK’s oil and gas industry. The safety of those travelling on offshore helicopter operations remains a priority.
As the UK’s aviation safety regulator, the CAA monitors all aspects of the operations of offshore helicopter companies and any risks to safe operation through its safety oversight programme. This includes the commercial environment and its potential impact on safety.
Impairment charges are a commercial matter for individual helicopter operators. Neither the Department nor the CAA holds data in relation to this.