The Terrorism Act 2000 came into force on 19th February 2001. It
replaced all previous legislation concerning terrorism. This law
impacts upon general aviation and the
responsibilities of pilots / owners.
The requirement to seek authority to fly to and
from the Common Travel Area (CTA) which consists of
Northern Ireland, Eire, Channel Islands and the
Isle of Man, from a non-designated airfield
remains. The notification period is a
minimum of 12 hours.
Within the county of Cheshire there are numerous non-designated
airfields and landing sites.
To clarify the procedure, the pilot must notify
the Counter Terrorism Branch / Port Unit for the area which covers
the last port of exit and the first port of entry into the UK when
flying to or from the CTA. In order to do this a General Aviation
Report (GAR) is used (see document in sidebar).
It is an offence to wilfully fail to comply with this
regulation.
Example flights
- Chester to Guernsey and return – Cheshire Small Port Unit to be
notified.
- Chester to Hawarden to Guernsey – North Wales Police to be
notified.
- Chester / Hawarden / Guernsey / Blackpool – Both North Wales
and Lancashire to be informed.
You will be aware of your responsibilities in relation to flight
notifications to HM Customs.
Should you have any enquiries in relation to HM Customs then the
below contact details will be of use:
- HMR & Customs Clearance Unit: Fax 0870 240
3738
- HMR & Customs Clearance Unit / Advice: Phone 0870
785 3600
- HMR & Customs email: ncu@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk
Officers from the unit will make visits to airfields in an
effort to meet owners, pilots and operators. If you need advice,
further information, or have any suggestions then please let us
know. We hope to establish a more effective working relationship
with the general aviation community of Cheshire.