A significant aviation safety incident occurred recently at Chennai International Airport (MAA) when an Emirates flight from Dubai was hit with a green laser beam during its final approach for landing. This incident, which has sparked serious safety concerns, highlights the growing problem of laser interference near airports.
On June 5, 2025, Emirates Flight EK542 was approaching Chennai when a powerful green laser struck the cockpit, effectively blinding the pilots temporarily. Responding to the hazardous situation, the pilots immediately aborted the landing, opting for a go-around, and notified Chennai Air Traffic Control (ATC). Fortunately, after the laser beam was extinguished, the aircraft was able to land safely on the runway. However, the incident underscores the dangers of laser interference, particularly during critical phases of flight such as landing.
According to airport officials and the Airports Authority of India (AAI), laser interference is described as a hazardous incident that severely threatens aviation safety. When lasers are directed at aircraft, they can impair pilots’ vision, potentially leading to dire consequences during the landing phase where precision is crucial. The AAI has called for the public to report such irresponsible actions immediately to local authorities.
The Greater Chennai Police (GCP) echoed these warnings in a public advisory. They stated that activities like shining laser beams at aircraft not only compromise flight safety but also threaten the lives of passengers and crew members. Engaging in such actions can result in legal repercussions under Section 125 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which outlines acts that endanger life or personal safety.
This particular incident is not isolated; it is part of a concerning trend. There have been multiple reports of laser strikes in the Chennai area, with five separate incidents occurring just in May 2025. One notable case involved another Emirates Boeing 777-300 aircraft, which was struck by a green laser as it descended toward the airport—just one day before the latest Emirates incident.
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has consistently warned against the severe risks associated with laser strikes. During critical flight phases, including landing and takeoff, these strikes can significantly impair pilots’ visibility and control of the aircraft, raising alarms among safety experts. India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation has recently addressed the rising trend of laser interference in its National Aviation Safety Plan for 2024-2028, emphasizing the need for awareness to prevent such occurrences.
A look at national aviation data reveals that in 2023, there were 144 reported instances of laser interference during landing and takeoff. Airport authorities acknowledge the great difficulty in tracking down individuals responsible for these reckless acts. In Chennai, reports indicate that laser incidents are typically sporadic, but special occasions like weddings can lead to a spike in events where lasers are used recklessly.
One of the primary challenges in combating laser interference is the easy availability of laser devices. From children’s toys to professional equipment for events, laser pointers can be widely accessed, making it difficult for authorities to prevent their misuse near airport zones. Amidst these concerns, Chennai airport officials are actively engaged in awareness campaigns, informing the public about the potential risks and impacts of laser strikes on aircraft safety.
As aviation safety remains a top priority, it is crucial for awareness and preventive measures to be actively encouraged. The aviation community, in collaboration with local authorities, continues to press on with educational initiatives aimed at informing the public about the dangerous implications of directing lasers at aircraft.
In summary, the recent incident involving the Emirates flight at Chennai International Airport serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and responsibility when it comes to the use of laser devices near aircraft operations. With a rising pattern of laser strikes, it is imperative for the public to understand the significant risks posed and to report any such reckless behavior to the authorities. Ensuring the safety of passenger flights hinges on community awareness and collective action against such hazardous activities.
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