Aviation Strategy

Written evidence from Mr John G Miller (AS 27)

Proposed closure of Filton Airfield

1. Possible relief to S.E. England airports runway congestion.

2. Resulting loss of existing Facility.

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1.a) The runway at Filton Airfield is one of the largest in the country.

And is one of only three that can handle the A380 aircraft.

Which would be a valuable asset in an emergency.

b) Although regular scheduled passenger flights are not allowable on the airfield. It

it is fully capable of handling any of todays aircraft.

c) Has CAA Licence and still has flight handling capability in place. Eg. Flight Control.

d) Is adjacent to motorways and rail. Giving good access to all parts of UK.

e) Would provide good capability for most ‘freight only’, that is currently handled by S.E.   Airports.

f) Fleet maintenance and any other aircraft maintenance could be handled.

g) The Airbus company scheduled flights (to other company sites) can continue.

h) Airbus components can be flown to other sights, as at present.

i) Current emergency helicopter services can continue. (Police and Air Ambulance)

2.a) The Airfield is an integral part of the only remaining facility in the U.K. with the capability to Design, Develop, Manufacture, Maintain, Flight Test and Development, of Civil Aircraft. This would no longer be the case if the airfield closed.

And although not currently utilised in this manner, the potential should remain, otherwise it is the case that this country will never again engage in full aircraft assembly of civil aircraft.

Recommendations.

This airfield must remain operational. And B A E Systems must be directed to not carry out their intentions at the end of the year.

A negotiated purchase should be made by use of a 10year Public Works type Loan with first two year interest roll-up. A Management Group of suitably experienced persons set up, with a mandate to operate and develop the airfield business. With a view to selling the business on in five years.

17 October 2012