Hi all,
Had a little event with the local Special Branch, UK Borders Agency and a CAA enforcement officer here at the airfield a few nights ago.
CAA chap showed a table of prosecutions over the past few years and basically there were only about 30 a year, with about 3 or 4 acquittals.
He said they tend only to prosecute where they feel there is an almost certain chance of conviction.
He also added that they do look very carefully at every available option, and often go for other solutions such as navigation training for infringers etc.
If I recall correct, they get about 200 complaints a year to follow up - so prosecution not too likely.
Yes, it may seem strange that some areas do not appear in court, but then - for instance (and in my words) - an agreement by someone to halt certain activities may actually serve the purpose just as well as a prosecution.
Certainly, bearing in mind some zone busts by individuals I know, prosecution would not achieve an increase in flight safety.
That is what it is all about. Safety.