Paul Murphy
Question:312. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will address a series of matters (details supplied) in relation to an aircraft; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28046/21]
View answerDáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 May 2021
312. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will address a series of matters (details supplied) in relation to an aircraft; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28046/21]
View answerUnder the terms of the Air Navigation (Foreign Military Aircraft) Order, 1952, all foreign military aircraft wishing to overfly, or land in, the State require the permission of the Minister for Foreign Affairs.
The provision of diplomatic clearance to land in, or overfly, the State is subject to strict conditions, namely, that the aircraft is unarmed; that it carries no arms, ammunition or explosives; that it does not engage in intelligence gathering; and that the flight in question does not form part of a military exercise or operation.
I can confirm that in advance of the flight the US Embassy submitted a request for diplomatic clearance for the specified aircraft to land at Casement aerodrome, Baldonnel, which stated that these conditions would be met. On that basis the requisite permission was granted.