“Appropriate charges will be filed against individuals caught directing laser pointers towards aircrafts as it endangers lives of the passengers, and the aircraft in general,” Angel Sumagaysay, Head of the PSSO, said.
Section 81 (b) (6) of the Civil Aviation Act of 2008 penalizes individuals caught deliberately pointing any light or signal that disrupts or interferes with air navigation. The penalties include imprisonment for no more than three years or a fine of at least P50,000 to P500,000, or both, as determined by the court.
Sumagaysay bared that the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has reached out to the local government for assistance, explaining that pointing laser at aircrafts put many lives at risk.
The act may result in the disruption of a pilot’s visions, affecting their ability to control the aircraft especially during critical phases of flight, such as during take-off and landing.
A momentary loss of vision endangers the lives of not only the passengers and crews, but also people on ground.
Sumagaysay said that his office is also coordinating with the barangays and other agencies to further strengthen the information dissemination against the use of laser pointers.
The public is urged to practice discipline and to not commit acts that deliberately risks the safety of others. (CIO)
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