Pranksters warned: Flashing of laser beams on aircraft, flight paths illegal

MANILA, Philippines — The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) described as criminal the flashing of laser beams or high intensity light on aircraft and flight paths, noting an increase in instances of such activity in the country’s airports, thus endangering passengers.

CAAP reiterated an advisory it issued in March warning the public against projecting laser beams on areas near airports and aircraft flight paths following reports of such activities at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and the Roxas Airport.

CAAP spokesperson Eric Apolonio has stressed that it is illegal and dangerous to use laser beams or high intensity lights projected from the ground to the airport and flight paths as they would jeopardize the aircraft’s safety.

Apolonio pointed out that CAAP felt the need to remind the public of the agency’s March 20 advisory circular following recent incidents at the Roxas Airport in Capiz Province and at the NAIA near the approach of runway 06 involving the use of laser beams by unscrupulous persons.

Laser beams could come from a pen to a flashlight-sized projector or even bigger.

According to the CAAP advisory, the activity interferes with the safe navigation of aircraft, violating the Civil Authority Act of 2008, and is punishable with a jail term of up to three years and fines ranging from P50,000 to P500,000 or both penalties.

CAAP deputy director general for operation Rodante Joya explained that the use of laser beams would be dangerous because intense light directed at the cockpit could damage the aircraft pilot’s eyesight, causing temporary blindness.

Laser attacks directed at flight crew can also result in disorientation and, in extreme cases, incapacitation affecting their ability to perform their duties on takeoff and landing.

Joya pointed out, “The act is a serious safety concern as it poses a threat to human lives and to aviation safety.” SFM