Chernnai:
An Emirates flight from Dubai with more than 300 passengers on board was struck by a green laser beam while descending into Chennai airport on Thursday night—the second such incident involving the airline in under three weeks.
According to officials familiar with the matter, the laser was directed at the aircraft around 13 nautical miles (24km) from the runway, as it flew at low altitude over the St Thomas Mount area during its final approach. The pilot immediately reported the incident to air traffic control, prompting airport authorities to refer the matter to local police.
The latest episode echoes a similar incident last month and has renewed concerns over aviation safety in Chennai’s airspace. In response to the earlier strike, Greater Chennai Police had issued an advisory warning the public against using high-intensity light-emitting devices—such as laser pointers, hot air balloons, and tethered kites—near flight paths.
However, Thursday’s breach indicates that enforcement remains patchy. Aviation officials warn that laser strikes can temporarily impair pilots’ vision and concentration during critical phases of flight, particularly during landing, posing serious risks to passengers and crew.
“Direct exposure to laser beams can cause momentary blindness and disorientation in the cockpit,” a airport source said. Authorities have reiterated that such acts violate aviation safety norms.
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