Britain's major airlines face tighter regulation under a government crackdown to protect the health of millions of passengers.

A new department responsible for 'aviation health' is to be set up by Ministers to investigate and regulate the industry amid concern over so-called economy-class syndrome, poor air quality and cramped seating.

The measures, to be included in this year's aviation White Paper, are likely to lead to statutory recommendations on increased leg room, improved air circulation and better medical facilities on leading UK carriers.

David Jamieson, Aviation Minister, believes airlines deserve greater scrutiny as complaints over deep-vein thrombosis and other health fears linked to flying continue to grow.

Until now no organisation in Europe has been responsible for the health concerns of air travellers, despite the year-by-year rise in passenger numbers.

Vale of Glamorgan MP John Smith, chairman of the all-party group on flight-related deep-vein thrombosis, said the department would look to instigate full-scale investigations into claims or evidence that passenger health was affected by flying.

Last month the Consumers' Association claimed that passengers on board BAe 146 aircraft might be at risk from poor cabin air, saying pilots reduced airflow to save fuel and that pesticides sprayed in the cabin contained substances banned in the US.

Action by the new department could prompt big changes to aircraft design, triggering major investment by an industry that is fighting to recover after the 11 September terrorist attacks.

The decision in favour of tougher government action comes during a continuing study by the World Health Organisation that aims to provide definitive proof of a link between blood clots and cabin air pressure and quality.