Experts say that laser lights have caused trouble due to farmhouses that host parties near the airport
A major disaster was averted on Wednesday when the pilot of a Toronto-Delhi Air Canada flight, that was approaching runway 29 of Indira Gandhi International Airport for landing, had his vision obstructed by a laser light, spotted "very close to the runway." The pilot immediately reported the matter to the Airport Operation Control Centre which alerted the Air Traffic Control and the airport operator. Experts say that laser lights have become a growing menace due to farmhouses that host parties near the airport. These lights may cause temporary blindness to pilots leading to disaster.
Wednesday's incident took place around 10.20 pm when the pilot, Petrick Gagnon, reported that he had spotted a green colour laser light about three nautical miles away from the airport. According to officials, the information was shared immediately with concerned authorities and location of the origin of laser was identified near Mahipalpur.
Delhi Police was also roped in and a team was rushed to the spot to identify the miscreant. "We have begun investigations and a case under relevant sections was registered," said a senior police officer. A senior ATC official said it is a serious matter as this is not the first time a pilot has complained about laser lights, which are a common feature at weddings and other functions. They interrupt their view and could lead to a major tragedy as such lights, when they hit the eyes directly, could cause temporary blindness.
Air traffic controllers said that such incidents are frequent as the approach path over the three runways passes over farmhouses that host parties where such lights and lasers are used often.
"There needs to be a blanket ban on the use of such laser lights or anything that distracts a flight landing, at least in the area around the airport. In 2016, restrictions were put on such practices and strict checks were held. We need a permanent ban on such things as they might lead to a major accident if they distract a pilot while landing. We need to make people more aware about the cons of such acts and those violating shall be prosecuted under law," said an ATC official.
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