VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Helicopters: Exhaust Emissions

Asked by James NaishLabourDepartment for TransportTabled Answered 4 September 2026UIN 22257

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she has plans to review the regulation or guidance relating to emissions from helicopters operating from private helipads, particularly those near residential areas.

Answered by Department for Transport

Noise controls for aerodromes are set through the local planning system where appropriate and enforcement is a matter for the local authority. Local authorities also have a duty to monitor air quality in their areas.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) sets noise standards for helicopters. While ICAO sets engine emissions standards for commercial aircraft, these do not apply to helicopters. The environmental and public health impacts of emissions from helicopters operating from private helipads are likely to be very small and there is no routine monitoring of these emissions.

The Department has no plans to review the regulation or guidance relating to emissions from helicopters operating from private helipads.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim