Police step up action on laser pen danger to aircraft

PRANKSTERS who shine laser pens at aircraft to distract pilots could be jailed, say Sussex Police.

By The Newsroom

Published 20th Jan 2009, 12:12 BST

Updated 8th Jun 2018, 04:43 BST

Laser pens are widely available on the internet, including some models that the Health Protection Agency says should be banned because they can damage eyes.

Last year there were nine reported incidents of lasers being aimed at aircraft at Gatwick Airport.

Sussex Police Chief Inspector Ed Henriet, who is based at Gatwick, said: "Using lasers in this way is highly irresponsible and dangerous. It represents a very large risk to many people '“ not just the air crew but the passengers as well.

"We will take action against any person discovered using lasers in this way. Anyone proved to be doing so with the intention of harming or disrupting the air crew will face criminal prosecution."

For full story see West Sussex Gazette January 21