Essex Police warning about the dangers of laser pointers

Police warn of the danger of pointing laser pens at planes.

Travel Insurance News - 18/07/2011

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Following a number of incidents near an Essex town, police in the county have issued a warning about the dangers created by pointing laser pens at aircraft. For three nights in a row this week, the laser pointers have been aimed at planes heading into Stansted Airport.

The pens, which have become increasingly popular as their strength and costs have dropped over recent years, have been involved in a number of incidents around the world where pilots reported being targeted. Though often considered a fun prank, the practice can be very dangerous.

Essex Police say the activity can have ‘extremely serious’ results and is a criminal offence. PC Allan Hodgetts explained that it can be not just a distraction for flight crews but can potentially be dangerous for the aircraft.

He said the laser light, on hitting the cockpit can dissipate, spreading in a large arc and causing temporary blindness. He asked that anybody with information concerning the recent incidents contact the Essex Police.

He said the police were hoping to nip the problem in the bud now. He added that the police would be patrolling the areas in which they suspect the activity has been taking place.

He said the police were aiming to catch one of the culprits and intended to make an example of the person. There have also been many cases of people being blinded by the portable lasers, sometimes done intentionally.

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