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Presented to: 2009 International Laser Safety Conference
By: Van B. Nakagawara, O.D.Date: March 23-26, 2009
Federal AviationAdministration
Federal AviationAdministration
Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
Laser Illumination of
Pilots in the
National Airspace
System
Federal AviationAdministration
2Federal AviationAdministration
Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
What is a Laser?What is a Laser?
LightAmplification by the
StimulatedEmission of
Radiation
LightAmplification by the
StimulatedEmission of
Radiation
Lasers in Vision Care
The excimer lasers removes tissuefrom the cornea’s internal layers.
Lasers demonstrations are used to attract and entertain the public at special events, theme parks, and casinos.
Lasers demonstrations are used to attract and entertain the public at special events, theme parks, and casinos.
Defense LasersDefense Lasers
Other Outdoor LasersOther Outdoor Lasers
Deep Space Communications
Near-earth Object Imaging
Astronomy
Geographic Research
Atmospheric Research
Deep Space Communications
Near-earth Object Imaging
Astronomy
Geographic Research
Atmospheric Research
FAA Order 7400.2 Procedures for Handling Airspace Matters, Part 6. Miscellaneous Procedures, Chapter 29: Outdoor Laser Operations.
FAA Order 7400.2 Procedures for Handling Airspace Matters, Part 6. Miscellaneous Procedures, Chapter 29: Outdoor Laser Operations.
Federal AviationAdministration
9Federal AviationAdministration
Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
FAA Laser PolicyFAA Laser Policy
Prior to 1995, the FAA policy limited laser
exposure within the Nominal Ocular Hazard
Distance (NOHD) in navigable airspace to less
than the Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE)
that can result in tissue damage.
Prior to 1995, the FAA policy limited laser
exposure within the Nominal Ocular Hazard
Distance (NOHD) in navigable airspace to less
than the Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE)
that can result in tissue damage.
Wavelength Effects
<300 nm: Corneal photokeratitis.
300 - 400 nm: Photochemical UV cataract.
400 - 780 nm: Photochemical and thermal retinal injury.
780 - 1400 nm: Cataract, retinal burns.
1400 - 3000 nm: Corneal burn, IR cataract.
>3000 nm: Corneal burn.
Wavelength Effects
<300 nm: Corneal photokeratitis.
300 - 400 nm: Photochemical UV cataract.
400 - 780 nm: Photochemical and thermal retinal injury.
780 - 1400 nm: Cataract, retinal burns.
1400 - 3000 nm: Corneal burn, IR cataract.
>3000 nm: Corneal burn.
NOTE: NOTE: Optical gain of the eye is Optical gain of the eye is
about 10about 1055. In the retinal hazard . In the retinal hazard
region (400 – 1400 nm), region (400 – 1400 nm),
irradiance of 1 mW/cmirradiance of 1 mW/cm22 entering entering
the eye is increased to 100 W/cmthe eye is increased to 100 W/cm22
at the retina.at the retina.
NOTE: NOTE: Optical gain of the eye is Optical gain of the eye is
about 10about 1055. In the retinal hazard . In the retinal hazard
region (400 – 1400 nm), region (400 – 1400 nm),
irradiance of 1 mW/cmirradiance of 1 mW/cm22 entering entering
the eye is increased to 100 W/cmthe eye is increased to 100 W/cm22
at the retina.at the retina.
Exceeding the MPE (Maximum Permissible Exposure)Exceeding the MPE (Maximum Permissible Exposure)
Federal AviationAdministration
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Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
< MPE Illumination & Temporary Visual Impairment< MPE Illumination & Temporary Visual Impairment
• Glare – Obscuration of an object in a person's field of vision due to a bright light source near the same line-of sight (e.g., oncoming car headlights).
• Flashblindness – A visual interference effect that persists after the source of illumination has ceased.
• Afterimage – A reverse contrast shadow image left in the visual field after an exposure to a bright light that may persist for several minutes.
• Glare – Obscuration of an object in a person's field of vision due to a bright light source near the same line-of sight (e.g., oncoming car headlights).
• Flashblindness – A visual interference effect that persists after the source of illumination has ceased.
• Afterimage – A reverse contrast shadow image left in the visual field after an exposure to a bright light that may persist for several minutes.
Federal AviationAdministration
12Federal AviationAdministration
Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
Since 1976, the Food and Drug Since 1976, the Food and Drug
Administration’s (FDA’s), Center for Administration’s (FDA’s), Center for
Devices and Radiological Health Devices and Radiological Health
(CDRH) has regulated the (CDRH) has regulated the
manufacturers of all laser devices manufacturers of all laser devices
sold in the U.S. under Title 21 CFR sold in the U.S. under Title 21 CFR
Parts 1010 & 1040. These devices Parts 1010 & 1040. These devices
include lasers used to conduct include lasers used to conduct
outdoor laser light shows outdoor laser light shows
(demonstrations). (demonstrations).
Since 1976, the Food and Drug Since 1976, the Food and Drug
Administration’s (FDA’s), Center for Administration’s (FDA’s), Center for
Devices and Radiological Health Devices and Radiological Health
(CDRH) has regulated the (CDRH) has regulated the
manufacturers of all laser devices manufacturers of all laser devices
sold in the U.S. under Title 21 CFR sold in the U.S. under Title 21 CFR
Parts 1010 & 1040. These devices Parts 1010 & 1040. These devices
include lasers used to conduct include lasers used to conduct
outdoor laser light shows outdoor laser light shows
(demonstrations). (demonstrations).
FDA Laser RegulationFDA Laser Regulation
Federal AviationAdministration
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Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
The manufacturer must certify that
a laser product’s performance
meets applicable CDRH performance
standards and provide labeling to
indicate compliance and laser
hazard classification.
The manufacturer must certify that
a laser product’s performance
meets applicable CDRH performance
standards and provide labeling to
indicate compliance and laser
hazard classification.
CDRH RegulationsCDRH RegulationsCDRH RegulationsCDRH Regulations
Federal AviationAdministration
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Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
In late 1995, the FAA received reports of 52
incidents of aircraft illuminations from laser
lights in or near Las Vegas. Of these, 11 incidents
resulted in temporary visual impairment of flight
crewmembers, and 24 took place during critical
phases of flight.
In late 1995, the FAA received reports of 52
incidents of aircraft illuminations from laser
lights in or near Las Vegas. Of these, 11 incidents
resulted in temporary visual impairment of flight
crewmembers, and 24 took place during critical
phases of flight.
FAA Involvement
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Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
NTSB Report # LAX96IA032:
A Southwest Airline’s First Officer (FO)
was visually incapacitated on departure
from Las Vegas. The captain assumed
control of the aircraft. The FO experienced
eye pain and was temporarily blinded in
the right eye. Inability to see lasted for 30
seconds (10/95).
NTSB Report # LAX96IA032:
A Southwest Airline’s First Officer (FO)
was visually incapacitated on departure
from Las Vegas. The captain assumed
control of the aircraft. The FO experienced
eye pain and was temporarily blinded in
the right eye. Inability to see lasted for 30
seconds (10/95).
At the FAA’s request, the FDA
issued a moratorium ceasing all
outdoor laser activities in the Las
Vegas area on Dec. 11, 1995.
Government and laser industry
representatives met to develop
appropriate guidelines.
At the FAA’s request, the FDA
issued a moratorium ceasing all
outdoor laser activities in the Las
Vegas area on Dec. 11, 1995.
Government and laser industry
representatives met to develop
appropriate guidelines.
Federal AviationAdministration
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Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
FAA Order 7400.2 was revised to establish
zones of navigable airspace around
airports to protect flight crewmembers
from temporary visual impairment during
critical flight operations.
FAA Order 7400.2 was revised to establish
zones of navigable airspace around
airports to protect flight crewmembers
from temporary visual impairment during
critical flight operations.
Available online at:http://www.faa.gov/airports_airtraffic/air_traffic/publications/at_orders/media/AIR.pdf
Available online at:http://www.faa.gov/airports_airtraffic/air_traffic/publications/at_orders/media/AIR.pdf
FAA Order 7400.2 FLIGHT ZONES FLIGHT ZONES
FAA Order 7400.2 FLIGHT ZONES FLIGHT ZONES
Potential Visual Effectsvary with Laser Power and Distance from Source
Potential Visual Effectsvary with Laser Power and Distance from Source
Federal AviationAdministration
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Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
FAA Responsibilities:FAA Responsibilities:
•FAA Order 7400.2 requires the FAA to conduct an aeronautical study for purposed outdoor laser activities to determine the potential effects upon aircraft operations.
•FAA issues a letter of determination (Objection or Non-Objection).
•FAA Order 7400.2 requires the FAA to conduct an aeronautical study for purposed outdoor laser activities to determine the potential effects upon aircraft operations.
•FAA issues a letter of determination (Objection or Non-Objection).
Research was needed to validate the newly established exposure limits were adequate to ensure aviation safety for pilots in a cockpit environment.
Research was needed to validate the newly established exposure limits were adequate to ensure aviation safety for pilots in a cockpit environment.
FAA/USAFFlight Simulator StudyFAA/USAFFlight Simulator Study
34 Subjects
12 Approach and 4
Departure Maneuvers
Frequency Doubled
Nd:YAG (532 nm) Laser
4 Levels of Laser Exposure (included one
zero level exposure)
34 Subjects
12 Approach and 4
Departure Maneuvers
Frequency Doubled
Nd:YAG (532 nm) Laser
4 Levels of Laser Exposure (included one
zero level exposure)
Effects of Laser Illumination on Operational and Visual Performance of Pilots Conducting Terminal Operations
Effects of Laser Illumination on Operational and Visual Performance of Pilots Conducting Terminal Operations
FAA 737 Flight SimulatorView of final approach to runway at 100 feet AGLFAA 737 Flight SimulatorView of final approach to runway at 100 feet AGL
Kodak DC240, aperture f/2.8, shutter speed 1/6 sKodak DC240, aperture f/2.8, shutter speed 1/6 s
Irradiance level: 0.5 µW/cm2
Simulates the effect of a 5 mW green laser pointer as seen from 3,000 feet away, or a 300 mW laser from 16,000 feet away
Irradiance level: 5 µW/cm2
Simulates the effect of a 5 mW green laser pointer as seen from 1,000 feet away, or a 300 mW laser from 6,700 feet away
Simulates the effect of a 5 mW green laser pointer as seen from 330 feet away, or a 300 mW laser from 2,400 feet away
Simulates the effect of a 5 mW green laser pointer as seen from 330 feet away, or a 300 mW laser from 2,400 feet away
Irradiance level: 50 µW/cm2 Irradiance level: 50 µW/cm2
Federal AviationAdministration
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Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
Results of the simulator study
indicated that the changes made to
FAA Order 7400.2 were adequate to
protect aviators from visual
impairment in the Critical and Laser-
Free Zones around airports.
Results of the simulator study
indicated that the changes made to
FAA Order 7400.2 were adequate to
protect aviators from visual
impairment in the Critical and Laser-
Free Zones around airports.
Available at: http://www.faa.gov/library/reports/medical/oamtechreports/index.cfmAvailable at: http://www.faa.gov/library/reports/medical/oamtechreports/index.cfm
Office of Aerospace Medicine Technical ReportsOffice of Aerospace Medicine Technical Reports
SAE Aerospace Recommended Practice and Aerospace Standard Reports
SAE Aerospace Recommended Practice and Aerospace Standard Reports
ARP 5535 – Observers for Laser Safety in the Navigable Airspace
ARP 5572 – Control Measures for Laser Safety in Navigable Airspace
AS 4970 – Human Factors Considerations for Outdoor Laser Operations in the Navigable Airspace
ARP 5535 – Observers for Laser Safety in the Navigable Airspace
ARP 5572 – Control Measures for Laser Safety in Navigable Airspace
AS 4970 – Human Factors Considerations for Outdoor Laser Operations in the Navigable Airspace
Guidance for Laser Proponents and Regulatory Personnel Include:Guidance for Laser Proponents and Regulatory Personnel Include:
American National Standards
Institute (ANSI): ANSI Z136.1- American National
Standard for Safe Use of Lasers
ANSI Z136.6- American National
Standard for Safe Use of Lasers
Outdoors
International Civil Aviation
Organization (ICAO): SARP (Standard and Recommended
Practice)
Manual on Laser Emitters and Flight
Safety
American National Standards
Institute (ANSI): ANSI Z136.1- American National
Standard for Safe Use of Lasers
ANSI Z136.6- American National
Standard for Safe Use of Lasers
Outdoors
International Civil Aviation
Organization (ICAO): SARP (Standard and Recommended
Practice)
Manual on Laser Emitters and Flight
Safety
As incidents associated with laser displays
declined, the increased availability and
popularity of handheld lasers presented an
increasing threat to aviators. Between 1
January 2004 and 31 January 2005, there
were 90 reports of laser illumination. More
importantly, 93% occurred in the last 3
months of the study period.
As incidents associated with laser displays
declined, the increased availability and
popularity of handheld lasers presented an
increasing threat to aviators. Between 1
January 2004 and 31 January 2005, there
were 90 reports of laser illumination. More
importantly, 93% occurred in the last 3
months of the study period.
Laser Pointers – A New DilemmaLaser Pointers – A New Dilemma
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Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
In recent years, more powerful handheld
lasers have become affordable. Green
lasers are especially popular because they
can appear up to 35 times brighter than
some red laser pointers with similar
output power.
In recent years, more powerful handheld
lasers have become affordable. Green
lasers are especially popular because they
can appear up to 35 times brighter than
some red laser pointers with similar
output power.
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Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
Green laser pointers
are now responsible
for > 86% of aircraft
lazing incidents.
Their light (532 nm)
is near the human
eyes’ peak photopic
and scotopic
sensitivity.
Green laser pointers
are now responsible
for > 86% of aircraft
lazing incidents.
Their light (532 nm)
is near the human
eyes’ peak photopic
and scotopic
sensitivity.
.
Wavelengths: 405, 473, 532, 635, 650 nmPower output: 5 – 400 mW
Range: up to 20 miles
Wavelengths: 405, 473, 532, 635, 650 nmPower output: 5 – 400 mW
Range: up to 20 miles
Class 3B handheld lasersare available on the Internet. Within the NOHD, momentary exposure (≤ 0.25 s) can cause eye damage.
Class 3B handheld lasersare available on the Internet. Within the NOHD, momentary exposure (≤ 0.25 s) can cause eye damage.
Laser Pointers on SteroidsLaser Pointers on Steroids
On January 12, 2005, Secretary of Transportation, Norman Mineta, announced the publication of a new Advisory Circular, entitled “Reporting of Laser Illumination of Aircraft” (AC No: 70-02).
On January 12, 2005, Secretary of Transportation, Norman Mineta, announced the publication of a new Advisory Circular, entitled “Reporting of Laser Illumination of Aircraft” (AC No: 70-02).
DOT Secretary Announces New PolicyDOT Secretary Announces New Policy
New FAA policy
(AC 70-02) was established to protect aircrews and passengers, improve reporting and enforcement, and to discourage future laser incidents.
New FAA policy
(AC 70-02) was established to protect aircrews and passengers, improve reporting and enforcement, and to discourage future laser incidents.
Advisory Circular: AC 70-02Advisory Circular: AC 70-02
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Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
• The reporting process has improved,
• Communication and coordination
between local air traffic authorities and
law enforcement have been enhanced,
and
• Arrests of perpetrators have increased.
• The reporting process has improved,
• Communication and coordination
between local air traffic authorities and
law enforcement have been enhanced,
and
• Arrests of perpetrators have increased.
Since Issuance of AC 70-02:Since Issuance of AC 70-02:
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Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
The Frequency of Laser Incidents by YearThe Frequency of Laser Incidents by Year
Reports of illumination incidents for both the aircraft and, more importantly, the cockpit, have increased dramatically from 2004 through 2007.
Reports of illumination incidents for both the aircraft and, more importantly, the cockpit, have increased dramatically from 2004 through 2007.
Aircraft & Cockpit Illuminations By Year
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
1600
INC
IDE
NT
S
COCKPIT 29 179 259 472 939
AIRCRAFT 46 348 451 687 1532
2004 2005 2006 2007 TOTAL
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Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
Dec. 29, 2004 - A New Jersey man
was charged under federal Patriot
Act anti-terrorism laws (fines up to
$500,000 and/or 25 years in prison)
after he allegedly shone a green
laser pointer at a commuter aircraft
from about 4,100 feet. Charges were
later reduced to lying to a federal
agent.
Dec. 29, 2004 - A New Jersey man
was charged under federal Patriot
Act anti-terrorism laws (fines up to
$500,000 and/or 25 years in prison)
after he allegedly shone a green
laser pointer at a commuter aircraft
from about 4,100 feet. Charges were
later reduced to lying to a federal
agent.
Federal AviationAdministration
43Federal AviationAdministration
Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
August 15, 2007 - The FBI arrested a 47-YO man
from Clint (TX) for shining a laser at commercial
airplanes. The confiscated device was a Class 3B
laser about the size of a flashlight. The FBI
believed he may be connected to three similar
illumination incidents. The suspect could have
faced up to 20 years in prison.
http://www.kfoxtv.com/news/13903480/detail.html
August 15, 2007 - The FBI arrested a 47-YO man
from Clint (TX) for shining a laser at commercial
airplanes. The confiscated device was a Class 3B
laser about the size of a flashlight. The FBI
believed he may be connected to three similar
illumination incidents. The suspect could have
faced up to 20 years in prison.
http://www.kfoxtv.com/news/13903480/detail.html
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Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
June 4, 2008 - A 24-YO man was charged with four
counts of discharging a laser and causing the
pilots to be temporary visual impaired or
disoriented. The green beam was directed at two
planes landing at Cleveland (OH) Hopkins
International Airport: a Life Flight helicopter, and a
Cleveland police helicopter. Police found the
suspect in the rear passenger seat of a car
holding the laser. He was later convicted and
sentenced to 3 years in prison. http://blog.cleveland.com/metro/2008/06/man_accused_of_pointing_laser.html
June 4, 2008 - A 24-YO man was charged with four
counts of discharging a laser and causing the
pilots to be temporary visual impaired or
disoriented. The green beam was directed at two
planes landing at Cleveland (OH) Hopkins
International Airport: a Life Flight helicopter, and a
Cleveland police helicopter. Police found the
suspect in the rear passenger seat of a car
holding the laser. He was later convicted and
sentenced to 3 years in prison. http://blog.cleveland.com/metro/2008/06/man_accused_of_pointing_laser.html
Federal AviationAdministration
45Federal AviationAdministration
Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
May 8, 2008 – A police helicopter pilot was
temporarily blinded by a laser illumination as he
flew over Lancashire (UK). The pilot took "evasive
action" while in mid-air to avoid crashing to the
ground during the incident. A 45-YO man was
arrested. It was the third incident in seven days
where a helicopter pilot had been dazzled by
lasers. The pens used had been bought on eBay
and were believed to be more powerful than a
normal laser pen.
http://www.lep.co.uk/news/Man-arrested-in-helicopter-laser.4061881.jp
May 8, 2008 – A police helicopter pilot was
temporarily blinded by a laser illumination as he
flew over Lancashire (UK). The pilot took "evasive
action" while in mid-air to avoid crashing to the
ground during the incident. A 45-YO man was
arrested. It was the third incident in seven days
where a helicopter pilot had been dazzled by
lasers. The pens used had been bought on eBay
and were believed to be more powerful than a
normal laser pen.
http://www.lep.co.uk/news/Man-arrested-in-helicopter-laser.4061881.jp
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Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
March 5, 2008 - Transport Canada reports indicate
laser incidents are occurring with an alarming
frequency. There have been 11 incidents reported
in Ontario since last March, but many more may
have gone unreported. A total of 33 pilots across
Canada have reported being flashed by a laser
beam while flying.
http://www.thestar.com/News/GTA/article/309525
March 5, 2008 - Transport Canada reports indicate
laser incidents are occurring with an alarming
frequency. There have been 11 incidents reported
in Ontario since last March, but many more may
have gone unreported. A total of 33 pilots across
Canada have reported being flashed by a laser
beam while flying.
http://www.thestar.com/News/GTA/article/309525
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Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
August 15, 2007 - Australia introduced 2-year jail
terms and fines of up to $30K for shining lasers on
aircraft in flight. The government says incidents
are happening 2-3/week in Australia. Authorities
have reports of 170 lasing incidents since January
2006. The government announced it would ban
imports of high-intensity laser pointers (effective
July 1, 2008).
-perrett@aviationweek .com
August 15, 2007 - Australia introduced 2-year jail
terms and fines of up to $30K for shining lasers on
aircraft in flight. The government says incidents
are happening 2-3/week in Australia. Authorities
have reports of 170 lasing incidents since January
2006. The government announced it would ban
imports of high-intensity laser pointers (effective
July 1, 2008).
-perrett@aviationweek .com
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Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
March 30, 2008 - Six aircraft flying into Sydney
(Australia) Airport were hit by blinding green lights
in what safety officials say is the city's worst laser
attack. It was the first recorded "cluster attack" in
which three or four people used lasers to make a
coordinated attack on aircraft coming into the
airport over heavily populated suburbs. Air traffic
control closed the approach flight path and
diverted incoming aircraft to a different runway,
forcing delays in some flights. The laser attacks
were from 10:15 to 10:30 pm. http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/laser-snipers-hit-planes/2008/03/29/1206207485440.html
March 30, 2008 - Six aircraft flying into Sydney
(Australia) Airport were hit by blinding green lights
in what safety officials say is the city's worst laser
attack. It was the first recorded "cluster attack" in
which three or four people used lasers to make a
coordinated attack on aircraft coming into the
airport over heavily populated suburbs. Air traffic
control closed the approach flight path and
diverted incoming aircraft to a different runway,
forcing delays in some flights. The laser attacks
were from 10:15 to 10:30 pm. http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/laser-snipers-hit-planes/2008/03/29/1206207485440.html
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Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
April 2008 - A new law proposed by the Premier of New South Wales declares possession of the handheld lasers a serious crime, punishable by up to 14 years in prison, depending on the device’s power. Weaker lasers could carry a $5,000 fine or 2 years in jail, and there would be exemptions only for teachers, construction crews, and certain scientists.
http://thelede.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/04/21/australia-takes-on-laser-lunatics/?hp
April 2008 - A new law proposed by the Premier of New South Wales declares possession of the handheld lasers a serious crime, punishable by up to 14 years in prison, depending on the device’s power. Weaker lasers could carry a $5,000 fine or 2 years in jail, and there would be exemptions only for teachers, construction crews, and certain scientists.
http://thelede.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/04/21/australia-takes-on-laser-lunatics/?hp
Aircraft Cockpit Illumination by AltitudeAircraft Cockpit Illumination by Altitude
14.9%14.6%12.6%20.5%0%>10K Total
68.6%65.8%71.6%68.5%93.3%CFZ Total
3.1%3.0%2.3%3.4%13.3%9 – 9.9
6.2%4.1%6.3%10.3%13.3%8 – 8.9
5.5%4.7%6.8%5.5%6.7%7 – 7.9
9.1%8.8%10.8%7.5%6.7%6 – 6.9
7.4%6.3%7.2%11.0%0.0%5 – 5.9
11.0%8.8%14.4%10.3%20.0%4 – 4.9
13.1%13.8%12.6%11.0%26.7%3 – 3.9
13.3%16.3%11.3%9.6%6.7%2 – 2.9
Critical Flight Zone
16.5%19.6%15.8%11.0%6.7%LFZ Total
11.3%11.8%13.1%7.5%6.7%1 – 1.9
5.2%7.7%2.7%3.4%0.0%0 – 0.9
Laser Free Zone
TOTAL2007200620052004K Feet
Percentage of Cockpit Illuminationsby Altitude, Flight Zone and Year
Note: 16.5% of illuminations of the aircraft cockpit are below 2000 feet AGL. Almost 69% of illuminations are in the CFZ.Note: 16.5% of illuminations of the aircraft cockpit are below 2000 feet AGL. Almost 69% of illuminations are in the CFZ.
The incident rate was highest in the AWP (0.86/100K flight operations) for the 2004-2006 period.The incident rate was highest in the AWP (0.86/100K flight operations) for the 2004-2006 period.
Laser Incident Rate by Region and YearLaser Incident Rate by Region and Year
Traffic Volume by RegionTraffic Volume by RegionBy region, the percentage
of traffic volume is
disproportionate to the
rate of illuminations.
Note: The Western Pacific
region’s incident rate was
3.6 times higher than that
of the Southern region
(0.86 and 0.24/100K flight
operations, respectively)
although both had similar
traffic volumes (22 and
21%, respectively).
By region, the percentage
of traffic volume is
disproportionate to the
rate of illuminations.
Note: The Western Pacific
region’s incident rate was
3.6 times higher than that
of the Southern region
(0.86 and 0.24/100K flight
operations, respectively)
although both had similar
traffic volumes (22 and
21%, respectively).The percentage of traffic volume for a particular
region is the number of flight operations in that
region divided by the total number for the NAS.
The percentage of traffic volume for a particular
region is the number of flight operations in that
region divided by the total number for the NAS.
Incident clusters specific to a particular airport can distort the incident rate (per 100K flight operations) for an entire region. Clusters occur at random over periods of a few days or months.
Incident clusters specific to a particular airport can distort the incident rate (per 100K flight operations) for an entire region. Clusters occur at random over periods of a few days or months.
Airports with 10 or More Laser Incidents
Of 746 cockpit illuminations where altitude was provided,
8.6% described one or more adverse effects (2004-2007).
These include visual effects (8.2%), pain and/or possible
injury (1.6%), and operational problems (3.2%).
Of 746 cockpit illuminations where altitude was provided,
8.6% described one or more adverse effects (2004-2007).
These include visual effects (8.2%), pain and/or possible
injury (1.6%), and operational problems (3.2%).
642412192517TOTAL
910155≥10K
371379148CRITICAL
18105964LASER FREE
AFTER-IMAGEFLASH-
BLINDNESSGLARE
COCKPITILLUMINATIONS
OPERATIONALPROBLEM
PAIN/INJURY
VISUAL EFFECTS
ZONE
Visual and Physiological Effects and Operational Problems by Altitude
Federal AviationAdministration
55Federal AviationAdministration
Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
Percentage of Laser Illuminationsby
Percentage of Laser Illuminationsby
MonthMonth Type of FlightType of Flight
Laser Illuminations occur most frequently in November, December, and February, and least frequently in May, June, and July. About 66% of all illuminations are of commercial aircraft.
Laser Illuminations occur most frequently in November, December, and February, and least frequently in May, June, and July. About 66% of all illuminations are of commercial aircraft.
Federal AviationAdministration
56Federal AviationAdministration
Laser Illumination of Pilots in the NASMarch 23-26, 2009
Percentage of Laser Illuminations by Time of Day
Percentage of Laser Illuminations by Time of Day
Note: Laser Illuminations occur most frequently from 6:30 – 11:30 p.m. Note: Laser Illuminations occur most frequently from 6:30 – 11:30 p.m.
The incidence of illumination is significantly The incidence of illumination is significantly higher in the Western Pacific region. higher in the Western Pacific region.
Almost 70% of laser incidents occur between 2K Almost 70% of laser incidents occur between 2K and 10K feet AGLand 10K feet AGL
Almost 70% of all incidents occur between the Almost 70% of all incidents occur between the hours of 7 to 11 pm (25% between 9 – 10 pm) . hours of 7 to 11 pm (25% between 9 – 10 pm) .
The fewest incidents occur during the months of The fewest incidents occur during the months of May, June, and July (16%). May, June, and July (16%).
Percentage of incidents by type of flight:Percentage of incidents by type of flight:• 66% Commercial66% Commercial
• 6% Helicopters (Med Evac./Law Enf.)6% Helicopters (Med Evac./Law Enf.)
The incidence of illumination is significantly The incidence of illumination is significantly higher in the Western Pacific region. higher in the Western Pacific region.
Almost 70% of laser incidents occur between 2K Almost 70% of laser incidents occur between 2K and 10K feet AGLand 10K feet AGL
Almost 70% of all incidents occur between the Almost 70% of all incidents occur between the hours of 7 to 11 pm (25% between 9 – 10 pm) . hours of 7 to 11 pm (25% between 9 – 10 pm) .
The fewest incidents occur during the months of The fewest incidents occur during the months of May, June, and July (16%). May, June, and July (16%).
Percentage of incidents by type of flight:Percentage of incidents by type of flight:• 66% Commercial66% Commercial
• 6% Helicopters (Med Evac./Law Enf.)6% Helicopters (Med Evac./Law Enf.)
SummarySummarySummarySummary
Incidents associated with authorized laser Incidents associated with authorized laser operations are rare, but illumination reports operations are rare, but illumination reports from handheld lasers have increased in recent from handheld lasers have increased in recent years. This may be due to increased awareness years. This may be due to increased awareness and a better reporting system (AC 70-2). and a better reporting system (AC 70-2).
Handheld lasers are cheaper and more powerful.Handheld lasers are cheaper and more powerful.
Better consumer awareness may be needed Better consumer awareness may be needed concerning misuse and potential penalties (e.g., concerning misuse and potential penalties (e.g., FDA labeling). FDA labeling).
Continued monitoring by aviation & law Continued monitoring by aviation & law enforcement is warranted. enforcement is warranted.
Incidents associated with authorized laser Incidents associated with authorized laser operations are rare, but illumination reports operations are rare, but illumination reports from handheld lasers have increased in recent from handheld lasers have increased in recent years. This may be due to increased awareness years. This may be due to increased awareness and a better reporting system (AC 70-2). and a better reporting system (AC 70-2).
Handheld lasers are cheaper and more powerful.Handheld lasers are cheaper and more powerful.
Better consumer awareness may be needed Better consumer awareness may be needed concerning misuse and potential penalties (e.g., concerning misuse and potential penalties (e.g., FDA labeling). FDA labeling).
Continued monitoring by aviation & law Continued monitoring by aviation & law enforcement is warranted. enforcement is warranted.
ConclusionsConclusionsConclusionsConclusions