Flying schools at Elstree Aerodrome are reviewing security, following a Special Branch investigation into fears that terrorists had tried to book flying lessons.

The investigation revealed nothing suspicious about the two men, but it has highlighted security issues concerning the training of private pilots at the aerodrome.

It is understood that Special Branch officers visited the aerodrome to investigate concerns of Cabair Group staff, who were not happy with the addresses given by two men of Middle Eastern appearance, who wanted to buy flying lessons last month.

The men were given one trial lesson in a Cabair plane but, when they asked to buy five hours of lessons, staff asked them to fill in membership forms with their addresses.

Cabair chief executive Steve Read confirmed this week, that the group had been discussing the matter with Special Branch.

He added: "We are working with the security services and if there are to be changes to the security regulations for flights, we expect them to give us the guidelines."

He said the views of all those involved in aviation had been affected by the tragic scenes of September 11, adding: "Inevitably, the whole world is more conscious we are certainly aware that the issue is a live one, which we have to take care of in the future."

According to Aaron Sessions, chief flying instructor at Firecrest Aviation flying school at the aerodrome, if instructors became suspicious about anyone learning to fly they would report it to the Special Branch.

He added: "We take details of whoever joins, and you get to know somebody as they learn to fly."

He said that Special Branch had visited the school and asked for a list of its students, although none had caused the school to be suspicious.

Councillor Neil Payne, Hertsmere Borough Council leader and member of Elstree Aerodrome Consultative Committee, said any measures to prevent a recurrence of the events of September 11 had to be ensured, adding: "I would support any guidelines that ensure the safety and security of the capital and everybody in it."

He said the issue of security would be raised at the next meeting of the committee, made up of representatives from the council, community and aerodrome, on December 6.

A Hertfordshire Constabulary spokeswoman said police had stepped-up patrols at the aerodrome since September 11, adding: "We are ready to respond to any threats should they occur.

"Our concern at this time is to deter potential terrorist incidents and ensure the county continues to be a safe place in which to live and work."

A Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said: "Following receipt of information, officers attended an address in Elstree and carried out enquiries which uncovered nothing suspicious and there will be no further action by police."

November 7, 2001 15:46

LORNA McVICARS