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US pilots hit by “laser attacks”
US authorities are reportedly concerned about a spate of incidents in which pilots have had laser beams shone into their eyes as they prepared to take off.
The BBC reports that there have been 31 such incidents in the last two weeks – relatively speaking, a massive increase on the 400 times it has been recorded over the last 10 years.
The US Transport Secretary Norman Mineta is quoted as saying that while there is “no apparent link” to terrorism, those using the pen-type “laser pointers” are putting live in danger.
He reportedly said: “Shining these lasers at an airplane is not a harmless prank. It is stupid and dangerous. You are putting other people at risk and law enforcement authorities are going to seek you out and, if they catch you, they are going to prosecute you.”
According to the BBC, new guidelines issued to pilots state that all such incidents must be reported to air traffic controllers. If this happens, a warning will be broadcast to air traffic across the US and planes will be diverted away from where the incident is reported.
Report by Tim Gillett, News From Abroad Ltd
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