Laser lights pointed at aircraft pose big risks, Singapore aviation authorities warn
The number of incidents of people shining laser lights at planes flying in and out of Changi Airport has risen, prompting Singapore aviation authorities to issue a warning against the practice.
According to local media reports, 45 incidents were reported in 2012, as compared to five in 2009.
Last year, 25 such incidents were reported, said The Straits Times in a report.
In a letter sent to residents in the east earlier this week, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) warned that laser illumination could endanger the aircraft and the lives of crew and passengers.
These laser lights, when shone into the cockpit, could confuse or distract pilots, and in severe cases, cause the pilots to suffer temporary flash blindness, the agency warned.
CAAS said that Changi Airport handled almost 344,000 landings and take-offs last year and that ensuring safe aircraft operations was of “utmost importance”.
Under the Singapore Air Navigation Order, offenders could be fined up to S$20,000, and repeat offenders could face a S$40,000 fine and/or up to 15 months’ jail.
However, culprits are seldom prosecuted because it is difficult to find the exact source where the laser beam was pointed from.
