Laser strikes on Kerikeri-bound aircraft spark reports to police
A deliberate series of laser strikes on aircraft on final approach to land at Bay of Islands Kerikeri Airport has prompted reports to local police and renewed warnings about the dangers of high-powered laser devices, after two near-identical attacks occurred within the same week.
Over the past two years, three separate laser strikes have been reported on aircraft descending on the north-bound flight path over Moerewa. Two of those happened recently - just days apart - and officials believe the same individual may be responsible, based on the laser’s colour and ground location. The device is thought to be a high-powered laser with an optical attachment, capable of reaching aircraft flying at altitudes as high as 13,000 feet.
During the recent incidents, the cockpit was completely illuminated by the laser, making it difficult for pilots to read their instruments. Passengers also reported seeing the beam flickering along the fuselage and shining through the windows. Pilots followed protocol by turning off the aircraft’s external and internal lights, but aviation rules require lights to be turned back on to maintain visibility. Once lights were restored, the laser strike resumed.
Bay of Islands Kerikeri Airport Manager, Daniel Alexander confirmed the incidents and emphasised the severity of the risk. “This behaviour is incredibly dangerous” he said. “Police have been notified and advice has been sought on what to do if the incidents continue.”
The Health (High-power Laser Pointers) Regulations 2013 restrict the sale and supply of laser devices exceeding 1 milliwatt in output. It is also an offence under the Summary Offences Act 1981 to carry such devices in public without a reasonable excuse. Despite these measures, laser misuse continues to pose a growing threat to aviation safety.
Mr. Alexander added, “The consequences of pilots being temporarily blinded and rendered unable to fly and land their aircraft are potentially catastrophic. We urge the person, or persons responsible to stop what they are doing before a major tragedy occurs.”
The council’s commercial arm, Far North Holdings owns and runs Bay of Islands Kerikeri Airport and manages Kaitāia Airport.
Main image - Simulated laser strike on a flying aircraft.
An earlier version of this article stated that the incident was reported to police and was under investigation. This has been updated to reflect new information received after publication, while the incident was reported to police, it is not under investigation.