KOLKATA- On Thursday evening, a potent laser originating from an area near the airport was aimed into the cockpit of an Air India (AI) flight, temporarily causing blindness to the pilots as they were in the process of landing at Kolkata airport (CCU).
Following the incident, the airline lodged a complaint with the airport operator, which was then escalated to the airport police station.
Air India Pilots Experienced Laser Disruption
According to airport authorities, the pilot of flight AI746 from Agartala to Kolkata encountered the issue when the aircraft was approximately 11 nautical miles or 20 kilometers from the airport.
As reported by the pilot, the beam of light seemed to originate from a location southeast of New Town. The aircraft, which landed at 8:10 pm on Thursday, carried 146 passengers and six crew members.
This incident has reignited concerns among airlines and pilots regarding the growing number of violations of restrictions on laser usage near the airport. An IndiGo Airlines (6E) pilot reported another similar incident on March 15, and five such cases were reported by pilots last month.
“Laser intrusions are increasingly posing a significant threat at Kolkata airport,” stated an airline official. “The issue was brought up at the environment management committee meeting attended by Bengal home secretary Nandini Chakravorty. Since then, the problem has worsened.”
Rise of such Incidents
Previously, pilots experienced this issue mainly during festivals such as Durga Puja, Kali Puja, and New Year celebrations. However, it has now also become prevalent during the wedding season.
Although all complaints have been forwarded to Bidhannagar City Police, officers have stated that identifying the locations from which laser beams are being directed into the sky is challenging.
“We had previously prohibited the use of all laser beams. However, people need to recognize the potential hazards and refrain from using them during ceremonies and festivals,” remarked an officer.
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