Laser Lights Shone at Planes - Palmerston Police are calling on witnesses in relation to two laser pointer incidents which occurred early this morning. Acting Commander Daniel Shean said two separate incidents were reported to Police at around 6am, stating two Pilots flying out of Darwin International Airport had laser pointers shone directly into the aircraft cockpit from a location in Palmerston. “Shining a laser light directly at an aircraft is extremely dangerous. It can cause a distraction to the Pilot or worse, cause temporary or flash blindness at a critical phase of flight,” A/Commander Shean said. In the Northern Territory a laser light with an accessible emission limit greater than 1mW is a controlled weapon. It is illegal to possess, carry or use a controlled weapon without a lawful excuse. Anyone caught shining a laser light at an aircraft could be prosecuted for possessing a controlled weapon and other more serious offences such as recklessly endangering life. The offence for carrying a controlled weapon carries a maximum penalty of up to $29,800 or 12 months imprisonment. The offence of recklessly endangering life carries a penalty of 10 years imprisonment. Anyone who may have any information relating to these incidents is encouraged to call Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Posted on: Thu, 03 Jul 2014 05:40:33 +0000