Laser blinds pilot, Malaysia Airlines flight flies in circle before Kolkata landing
A Malaysia Airlines flight experienced a delay approaching Kolkata airport due to a laser beam. The pilot's vision was momentarily affected, causing disorientation and a missed landing opportunity. The aircraft circled the sky before safely landing later that night. Airport authorities have filed a complaint with the police for investigation into the incident. Such laser use near airports is…
Kolkata: A Malaysia Airlines flight carrying 159 passengers experienced delays as the pilot was reportedly distracted by a laser beam while approaching Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, according to airport sources on Sunday. Flight MH-184 had been scheduled to land at 11:20 PM on Saturday, but the aircraft was eight nautical miles from the runway when the incident occurred.
The laser reportedly affected the pilot's vision and momentarily disoriented him, leading to a delay as the plane circled in the sky before making another approach. The flight eventually landed safely at around 11:25 PM, with all passengers and crew members reported safe. Following the incident, the airline notified airport authorities, who in turn reported it to the NSCBI Airport Police Station.
Kolkata airport director Vikram Singh stated that the use of laser lights around the airport is prohibited, though such incidents do happen occasionally and can impact aircraft operations. He informed police authorities, who are currently investigating the case. Pilots have previously reported that laser beams can impair their vision during critical take-off and landing phases.
During the 2025 Durga Puja festival, laser lights near the Sreebhumi Sporting Club pandal caused concern among pilots, leading to the shutdown of the laser show. Intense laser beams can temporarily impair a pilot's vision, causing distractions or even temporary blindness-like effects, posing significant risks during take-off and landing.
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