Laser Beam Hazard for flight personnel

Authors

Abstract

Lasers can produce a beam of light of such intensity that permanent damage to human tissue, in particular the retina of the eye, can be caused instantaneously, even at distances of over 10 km. At lower intensities, laser beams can seriously affect visual performance without causing physical damage to the eyes; causing transient damage or causing sensation and loss of focus. Laser illumination of aircraft can cause distraction, disorientation, and discomfort for pilots resulting in a potentially hazardous situation during critical phases of flight. It should be of interest to air Traffic controllers, aerodrome operators, and to the operators of laser shows.

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[4]RASG-MID Safety Advisory -12, March 2017.