LOW flying information will now be available on social networking sites after the RAF joined Facebook and Twitter.
“Our office has responsibility for keeping the public informed about low flying and in the past we have done this, with limited success, through press releases to the media,” said Squadron Leader Albie Fox, the RAF’s community relation’s officer (CRO) for Wales.
“By using the social media we can instantly contact people who have joined us and point them to the latest information available on our website www.raf.mod.uk/crowales,” he added.
The RAF says that in the last 10 years low flying has reduced by 60 per cent in Wales.
However, the reduction has resulted in the public being more aware of low flying activities when it happens.
The CRO website gives details of the times and areas of low flying, thus enabling the public to be made aware in advance, which in return it hopes may prevent any mishaps that the activities may cause.
Wales is designated Low Flying Area 7 (LFA7) where aircraft can be as low as 250 feet. Within LFA7 is a tactical training area designated LFA7(T) where activities can be as low as 100 feet.
“LFA7 is active all day and using Twitter we advise of any surge activities and where they will occur. We can also remind people the times when LFA7 (T) is active and hopefully those residents who can be disturbed by low flying can be prepared,” said Mr Fox.
Information of events or displays will also be announced on these sites for people who have an interest in aircraft and the RAF in general.
Devotees will be able to comment on the RAF in Wales, post pictures and any videos they may have taken.
Mr Fox added: “Joining these social media sites provides us with further communication tools to engage with the people of Wales and we hope that this service will help them to better understand the work we do.”