United Kingdom Low Flying System

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Low Flying Area Action UK Low Flying Area Action 2023 5WAL8432 (52798413719).jpg
Low Flying Area Action

The United Kingdom Low Flying System (UKLFS) is the airspace across the United Kingdom in which low flying training is permitted. The system was established in 1979 and extends from ground level to 2000ft AGL. Flying is carried out from 0800 to 2300 during weekdays only. Military aircraft are also allowed to fly in Tactical Training Areas. [1]

Contents

Aircraft are restricted to a cruising speed of 450 knots, [2] and reheat (use of afterburner) is not permitted except for emergencies. Low flying aircraft should not enter any Air Traffic Zones, including Aerodrome Traffic Zones and Military Aerodrome Traffic Zone.

History

It was introduced by the Air Force Board, and by Labour Under-Secretary of State for Air James Wellbeloved, who two years later defected to the SDP. [3] In 1990 the Defence Select Committee had proposed that low-flying be removed over two years. [4]

Complaints

In 1979 there were around 4,000 complaints about low flying, with £38,000 paid in compensation. In 1978 a USAF General Dynamics F-111 Aardvark had flown supersonic directly over a Welsh village, receiving many complaints. [5] In 1981, a F-111 flew low over Finzean in Aberdeenshire; [6] Captain Robert Vosburgh was disciplined. [7]

Tactical Training Areas

See also

References

  1. ↑ UK Tactical Training Areas
  2. ↑ Regulatory Article 2330
  3. ↑ Times Wednesday May 24 1978, page 8
  4. ↑ Times Wednesday May 16 1990, page 8
  5. ↑ Times Saturday June 28 1980, page 14
  6. ↑ Aberdeen Evening Express Monday 7 December 1981, page 17
  7. ↑ Times Tuesday December 29 1981, page 2
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