Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to Section 78(5)(f) of the Civil Aviation Act 1982, how many dispensations given by the Secretary of State are currently active at Heathrow Airport.

In the six months to 7 November 2022, there were 409 dispensations under a notice granted by an airport manager at Heathrow Airport. Widespread and prolonged air traffic disruption accounted for 399 of these dispensations; emergencies, with an immediate danger to life or health accounted for 8 dispensations; and delays likely to lead to serious airfield or terminal congestion accounted for 2 dispensations.

Over the same period, one dispensation was given by the Secretary of State under Section 78(5)(f) of the Civil Aviation Act 1982.

Heathrow Airport Limited publishes night flight dispensations data in its quarterly Night Flight Report.

The Government publishes guidance for airport managers on eligibility for dispensations, and any dispensations must be notified to the Department within seven days.