Police Hunt Laser Daredevils Targeting Planes Over Southampton
A string of terrifying incidents involving high-powered green laser pens shining at aircraft over Southampton has police on high alert. Despite no injuries so far, Hampshire Constabulary is cracking down on offenders risking lives in the skies.
Laser Strikes Near Southampton Airport
- On December 30 at 8.40pm, a laser beam was blasted into the flight path of a plane near the Itchen Bridge area, Southampton.
- January 2, just before 10pm, another laser targeted a plane’s cockpit as it landed, with light traced back to Mayfield Park.
- January 3 saw a laser dazzling a southbound plane over the M27 just before 7pm.
- On January 4 at 9.30pm, a similar attack came from Bitterne Park aimed at an inbound aircraft cockpit.
Each time, police rushed to the suspected locations but haven’t yet caught the culprits. Thankfully, no flights were harmed and all planes landed safely.
Torch Light Shone at Police Helicopter
On January 5, around 3.20pm, a man in his 70s shone a torch — not a laser — at a National Police Air Support Helicopter patrolling Southampton. Officers gave him a warning on the spot.
Tough Laws Mean Trouble for Laser Offenders
Hampshire police are eyeing prosecution under serious aviation safety laws. Those found shining lasers at aircraft could face charges under the Air Navigation Orders of 2009 and 2016, which make it illegal to recklessly endanger aircraft or dazzle pilots.
Chief Inspector Beth Pirie warned: “This activity is highly dangerous and irresponsible during any phase of flight, especially during critical times such as landings at night. Lasers are not toys – they could cause lifelong visual damage.”
She added that parents often aren’t aware children own laser pens, mistakenly thinking they’re harmless toys. Police are teaming up with Southampton Airport, airlines, and the National Police Air Service to nab the offenders.
Give the Police a Hand
Anyone with information about these laser incidents is urged to call Hampshire Constabulary on 101, quoting Operation Fairway or reference number 441700044424.
Remember: It’s not illegal to own a laser pen, but shining one at an aircraft is a dangerous crime with serious consequences.
