RAF Northolt is a good neighbour

I AM the Chairman of the Vine Lane Residents’ Association, and a representative on the RAF Northolt Resident’s Liaison Group.

I read with concern and distress the front page article (Gazette, June 17).

This stated the opinion of Mr Douglas Lewington concerning the stated deviation from the flight path of aircraft flying at RAF Northolt Airfield. I especially object to the statement from the HACAN group, to quote, “That RAF Northolt has become a noisy useless neighbour”.

I have lived in Vine Lane for 45 years directly under the flight path of aircraft on the extended centre line of the runway.

I can state firmly that the aircraft stick to their authorised flight path as it is directly over my house and garden. In my opinion, the aircraft have become quieter and the movements fewer since I first moved into my home.

As a member of the Liaison Group, I can confirm that the RAF takes any complaints and comments from their neighbours very seriously.

As the airfield is also used by the Air Ambulance and occasional air emergencies from abroad, it serves a vital civilian function.

I recently visited the Battle of Britain Memorial near Dover and felt very proud of the part played by RAF Northolt in this vital battle for the survival of the United Kingdom. Recently, fighter aircraft were based there to give protection during the Olympic Games.

I should like to thank the Station Commander for the Centenary Open Day attended by 11,000 local guests.

Long may the Royal Air Force continue at Northolt, and continue to be such good neighbours.