Military Aircraft Landings

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 February 2017

Tuesday, 21 February 2017

Questions (593)

Clare Daly

Question:

593. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if an aircraft (details supplied) which arrived at Shannon Airport on 12 February 2017, but which left Shannon on 13 February 2017, sought and received permission to transport soldiers, weapons or munitions through Shannon Airport; the reason this aircraft is using a civilian call sign while on a military operation when in Irish airspace and when landing at Shannon Airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8202/17]

Written answers

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

The airline operating the flight referred to by the Deputy applied for an exemption under the Air Navigation (Carriage of Munitions of War, Weapons and Dangerous Goods) Order 1973. My Department carried out the standard consultation procedure in relation to the application and an exemption was granted for the flight. This exemption was for the unloaded personal weapons of the troops on board the aircraft. Call signs are a matter for the airline concerned.