Laws to make aircraft laser strikes an offence

People who target aircraft pilots with laser beams face jail and fines of up to €50,000 under laws being introduced this week against such potentially lethal behaviour.

According to the Irish Aviation Authority, there were 158 laser “strikes” made on pilots in Irish airspace last year.

Legislation due to pass the final stage of the Oireachtas tomorrow contains a measure making it a specific offence to dazzle an aircraft pilot with laser beams.