Laser Beam Disorients Pilot

A Malaysia Airlines flight carrying 159 passengers faced a potentially dangerous situation while approaching Kolkata after a laser beam was reportedly directed toward the aircraft's cockpit.

Laser Beam Disorients Pilot

Malaysia Airlines Flight MH184 was operating from Kuala Lumpur to Kolkata when the incident occurred during its final approach to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport. The aircraft was reportedly around eight nautical miles from the runway when the pilot noticed a powerful laser beam coming from the Madhyamgram-Barasat area.

Pilot Temporarily Disoriented by Laser Beam

The laser illumination reportedly affected the pilot's vision and caused temporary disorientation. Such interference can be particularly hazardous during the approach phase, when pilots must maintain accurate visual references while simultaneously managing the aircraft's altitude, speed and flight path.

Because of the disruption, the crew did not complete the landing on the initial approach. The aircraft remained airborne and made another circuit before returning for a further landing attempt.

The Malaysia Airlines aircraft eventually landed safely in Kolkata at around 11:25 pm. All 159 passengers and members of the crew were reported to be safe.

Airport Authorities Informed

Following the incident, Malaysia Airlines informed Kolkata airport authorities about the laser strike. The airport authorities subsequently reported the matter to the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport Police Station.

Police authorities are expected to investigate the source of the laser beam and determine who was responsible for directing it toward the aircraft.

Kolkata airport director Vikram Singh highlighted that using laser beams near airports is prohibited because of the potential danger they pose to aircraft operations.

Why Laser Beams Are Dangerous to Aircraft

Laser strikes are a serious aviation safety concern, particularly during take-off and landing. A bright laser directed into an aircraft cockpit can cause several problems for pilots, including:

Temporary visual impairment

Disorientation

Distraction during critical flight phases

Glare that makes cockpit instruments and external visual references difficult to see

Temporary loss of night vision

Potential difficulty maintaining the intended flight path

The risk becomes particularly significant during an aircraft's final approach because pilots depend heavily on accurate visual information as they prepare for landing.

Previous Laser Incidents in Kolkata

Laser-related incidents have been reported around Kolkata in the past. During the 2025 Durga Puja celebrations, laser displays associated with the Sreebhumi Sporting Club pandal reportedly raised concerns about their potential impact on aircraft operating near the airport.

The laser activity was subsequently discontinued following safety concerns.

Laser Strikes Remain an Aviation Safety Threat

The Malaysia Airlines incident highlights the continuing dangers created when powerful laser beams are directed toward aircraft. Even a brief laser exposure can interfere with a pilot's ability to safely operate an aircraft, particularly during take-off, approach or landing.

Conclusion

Although the Malaysia Airlines flight was able to land safely after making another circuit, the incident demonstrates why laser activity around airports is strictly regulated.

Authorities routinely warn the public against pointing lasers at aircraft because such actions can endanger passengers, crew and people on the ground.

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