Dazzling Pilots with Lasers will result in Disaster

In the UK the Pilots union have warned that it is only a matter of time before a serious aircraft incident is caused by foolish pranksters with laser pointers.

There has been a worrying trend in the UK of an increase in the number of laser dazzling incidents forcing co-pilots to take the aircraft controls. In recent weeks there have been some potentially fatal incidents reported at Glasgow, Edinburgh, Gatwick and Durham.

Often it s difficult to pinpoint the source of a laser pointer due to the height of an aircraft. In one recent incident at Durham Tees airport the police were able to locate and capture the man responsible.

These laser devices can produce an intense beam of light that will reach 37,000 feet. Pilots and co-pilots have reported that when they see an unusual light when coming in to land they can be forced to take evasive action. They’ve warned that sooner or later a serious incident will occur in which lives are lost.

Over the past five years, in the United States, there have been over 1000 reported incidents involving laser pointers. Anyone convicted can face a prison sentence of up to 20 years and a fine of as much as ,000. In Americal consideration is being given to possibly considering those carrying out this dangerous activity as domestic terrorists.

In one recent UK case a 25 year old man from Hampshire received only a suspended prison sentence and in another a 19 year old man was given a 4 month prison sentence. Air safety campaigners have called for harsher sentences to act as a deterrant to those who think this activity is just a prank.

When flying from Scotland be sure to book your Glasgow airport parking, your Aberdeen airport parking or your Edinburgh airport parking in advance to get up to 60% off the normal cost.

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