Essex Police has set up a plane enthusiasts scheme at Stansted Airport.
Not all UK airports have such a scheme but due to popular demand PC Richard McDade and PCSO Sue Southgate have set up Plane Watch at Stansted.
Plane Watch is free of charge and gives members the chance to enjoy a hobby and help police protect the airport from criminals and terrorist activity. Members are given a welcome pack, lanyard and identification card which they will be asked to show upon request from any police officer, police community support officer or member of airport security staff while at the airport.
To apply for Plane Watch, you’ll need to complete an application form and send two passport size photographs, photo identification in the form of a photocopy of a passpost or driving licence and confirmation of home address such as a photocopy of a utility bill.
Essex Police will then carry out a number of checks on the details you provide. Police reserve the right to refuse applications without explanation.
The identification card strictly prohibits members gaining access to any restricted area within the airport. It does not give members any additional rights over any other member of the public. However it does show enthusiasm in helping the authorities to protect the airport from criminals and defeat terrorist threats. against aviation.
