Police Warn Of Laser Pen Danger To Aircraft

Cheshire police are warning about the dangers of shining a laser pen at aircrafts after a plane was targeted in Runcorn.

Police are appealing to the public for information after an incident was reported overnight in the Runcorn area, whereby a laser light was directed at passing aircraft on its descent into Liverpool John Lennon Airport.

The incident was reported to Cheshire Police last night, Wednesday 2nd March. At approximately 9.30pm a green laser light was directed towards the cockpit of an inbound aircraft headed toward John Lennon Airport, fortunately the aircraft landed safely.

The shining of a laser light can have very serious consequences, endangering the crew, aircraft passengers, and the public. Cheshire Police and airport authorities are keen to trace anyone involved in these incidents. The Constabulary is treating these issues seriously and will respond to reports immediately.

Inspector Mike Evans said: "Such irresponsible and idiotic behaviour can have potentially serious consequences for airline passengers and crew. Similar cases have been successfully prosecuted and those found guilty of participating in such behaviour are liable to a term of imprisonment.”

We would urge anyone with any information to come forward and contact Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 973 of 2/3/2016. Alternatively information can be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.