30/09/2022

Warning Issued After Laser Pointed At Commercial Aircraft

Police are warning of the dangers of pointing a laser at aeroplanes following reports of one being pointed at a commercial aircraft in the Lurgan area.

Inspector Gary McCullough said: "We received a report shortly before 8.30pm last night, Thursday 29th September, that a laser had been shone at an aircraft while it was flying over the Lurgan area.

"Thankfully, on this occasion, no one was injured as a result of this extremely dangerous and reckless behaviour. Enquiries are ongoing in relation to this matter.

"There have been several similar reports of this nature in recent weeks in this area. We want to remind people that not only is it an offence under the Air Navigation Order to endanger aircraft but it is highly irresponsible and dangerous. Lasers can cause temporary blindness and where pilots are concerned, this could result in a catastrophe and possibly lead to loss of life.

"Be mindful of the impact of such actions, and be prepared to face the consequences."

Inspector McCullough continued: "We are appealing for information in relation to this incident. If you can help identify whoever was responsible, or have any relevant information, please contact the non-emergency number 101 quoting reference 1810 29/09/22.

"Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime."

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

31 January 2006
Bombardier shelves CSeries project
Aircraft manufacturer Bombardier has shelved its planned 110 to 130-seater CSeries airliner as it shifts resources to work on regional jet and turboprop aircraft. Bombardier announced that "present market conditions do not justify the launch of the CSeries jet at this time".
14 June 2011
Kilrea Company Invests In Growth
Laser cutting specialists, SJC Hutchinson Engineering in Kilrea, have been celebrating their 40th year of trading. They have invested almost £1m in a new state-of-the-art laser cutting machine and expert training programme for their staff.
30 May 2017
Two People Escape Serious Injury In Light Aircraft Crash
Two people have escaped serious injury following a light aircraft crash in Co Down. The incident happened near Castlewellan Forest Park just before 5pm on Monday, 29 May. Police confirmed two people were treated at the scene in the Dolly's Bare area, however their injuries are not believed to be life threatening.
24 October 2012
Police Issue Warning Over Laser Pens
The PSNI have issued a warning after 12 incidents of laser pens being pointed at aircrafts in the Newtownabbey and Carrickfergus areas have occurred in the last three weeks. Inspector Alan McKeown said the pens "can cause temporary blindness and distraction to the pilot".
22 July 2022
Victims Of Light Aircraft Crash Named
The victims of a light aircraft crash in Newtownards have been named as Philip Murdock and Caroline Mawhinney. The were both members of the Ulster Flying Club and died in the crash just after 8.20pm on Tuesday. Mr Murdock was the Managing Director of security firm Envision Intelligent Solutions in Craigavon.