- Flight MH-184, operating from Kuala Lumpur to Kolkata, was scheduled to land at 11.20 pm on Saturday.
- At about eight nautical miles from the runway, the pilot noticed a bright laser beam flashing towards the cockpit from the Madhyamgram-Barasat side.
- The laser flash disoriented the pilot, preventing immediate landing; the aircraft had to circle in the sky.
- The aircraft landed safely at around 11.25 pm; all passengers and crew members were reported safe.
- Following the incident, the airline informed airport authorities; a complaint was lodged with the NSCBI Airport Police Station.
- Kolkata airport director Vikram Singh noted that the use of laser lights around the airport is prohibited, but such incidents occur occasionally.
- The matter has been brought to the notice of police authorities, who are investigating the case.
- Intense laser beams can temporarily impair a pilot's vision, causing distraction and even effects similar to temporary blindness, posing a safety risk during critical stages of take-off and landing.
- Pilots have previously raised concerns over laser beams affecting their vision during take-off and landing.
- During the 2025 Durga Puja festivities, laser lights used near the Sreebhumi Sporting Club pandal reportedly raised concerns among pilots.
Flight MH-184, operating from Kuala Lumpur to Kolkata, was scheduled to land at 11.20 pm on Saturday. However, about eight nautical miles from the runway, the pilot was disoriented by a bright laser beam from the Madhyamgram-Barasat area, causing a delay in landing.123
The aircraft circled before safely landing at 11.25 pm, with all 159 passengers and crew members reported safe. Kolkata airport authorities lodged a complaint with the NSCBI Airport Police Station following the incident. Kolkata Airport Director Vikram Singh stated that while the use of laser lights around the airport is prohibited, such incidents occur occasionally and can affect aircraft operations.456
Pilots have previously raised concerns about laser beams affecting their vision during critical flight stages. Intense laser beams can temporarily impair a pilot’s vision, causing distraction and effects similar to temporary blindness, posing a significant safety risk during take-off and landing. This incident highlights the ongoing issue of laser distractions in aviation, as similar concerns were raised during the 2025 Durga Puja festivities when laser lights near the Sreebhumi Sporting Club pandal caused alarm among pilots.8910
Authorities are investigating the case to prevent future occurrences and ensure the safety of air travel.
“The laser originated from the Madhyamgram-Barasat area when the aircraft was eight nautical miles from the runway, prompting a complaint with the NSCBI Airport Police Station. Airport director Vikram Singh noted such incidents occur occasionally despite being prohibited, and pilots have previously raised concerns during take-off and landing.”
theweek.in
