Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation Laser attack on...

Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011 Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation

Laser attack on aircraftCapt. Jo Schoenmaker I F A L P A

T H E G L O B A L V O I C E O F P I L O T S


European Cockpit Association

ECA created in 1991 Representative body of European Flight Crews

at European Union (EU) level. Represents over 38,650 European pilots in 38

European countries. ECA's Mission: “Striving for the highest levels of

aviation safety and fostering social rights and quality employment for pilots in Europe."


International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations

IFALPA created in 1948 Approx 100 Member Associations world-wide In excess of 100,000 pilot members IFALPA’s mission: “To promote the highest level

of aviation safety world-wide and to provide representation, services and support to all of its Member Associations.”

I F A L P A T H E G L O B A L V O I C E O F P I L O T S


What’s the fuss about?

Occurrences

Is it impairing flight safety?


Occurrences

Country 2008 2009 2010

France - - 600

Netherlands - 270 470

Germany 1 33 273

Norway 5 119 155

Sweden 5 87 128

United Kingdom 206 739 1494

USA 1527 2836


Why is it dangerous

1. Distraction

Visual effects - Glare - Flash blindness - After Image

Eye injury


Normal Safety Precautions

International operational safety standards for Aviation:

Concept for:Approach preparation / Night adaption of eyes Sterile Cockpit < 10.000 ftStabilized approach < 1.000 ft


Distraction = endangering

Distraction of flight crew: Disrupt cockpit procedures Disrupt crew coordination Disrupt ATC communication Degrade flight performance

Result: Safety is endangered


Effects of laser

50 Mw:

Eye hazard: 260 ft

No hazard: >1,92 Nm

1.000 mW:

Eye hazard: 728 ft

No hazard: > 27 Nm

Source: FAA


Effect of laser

350 ft

3700 ft

1200 ft

Source:FAA

5mW at 350 ft / 300 mW at 2.400 ft5mW at 350 ft / 300 mW at 2.400 ft

Source:FAA


As seen from the flight deck


Factors of influence

Flight phase Aircraft flying pre–established routes Colour blindness HUD (Head up display) Pilot awareness and response


Recommended flight deck procedures

Look away from the laser / shield your eyes Avoid rubbing of eyes Consider engaging autopilot or hand over controls Turn up cockpit lighting Check for dark/disturbed areas in vision Inform ATC File an Air Safety Report (ASR) Seek aeromedical or optometrist advice

Full text: http://www.ifalpa.org/downloads/Level1/Briefing%20Leaflets/Medical/09MEDBL07%20-%20Effects%20of%20laser%20illumination%20of%20aircraft.pdf


Challenges

No awareness of the danger It is not an offence/crime in many countries No standards / no reporting system Police have a hard time finding perpetrators Outbound flights = no notification (police)

Céline Canu

See comment box - in case you want it UK legislation - maybe nice to qute the text as it is short


Way forward

Laser attack = endangering safety = unlawful interference = incident ASR

EU adoption of Doc 9815 Harmonize legal actions Proportionate penalties Standard reporting procedures ATC / police Awareness campaigns


Way forward?

Regarding lasers > 5 mW: Regulate trade / purchase / possession / use

Lasers (> 50 mW) = weapon

Development of mitigating technologies


UK example

CAA WG laser Legislation: specific on laser light Prosecution: 24 successful CAA guidance to flight crew and towers Standard laser incident reports Awareness campaigns


Thank you

Capt. Jo [email protected]

+31 6 149 76 125

Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation Laser attack on...

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