Malaysia Airlines flight pilot disoriented by laser beam near Kolkata airport
A Malaysia Airlines flight carrying 159 passengers from Kuala Lumpur to Kolkata was forced to circle the airport after the pilot was momentarily disoriented by a laser beam. The incident occurred on Saturday night as the aircraft approached the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport. The pilot successfully landed the plane shortly after the disruption, and all passengers and crew remained safe. Airport authorities have filed a formal police complaint regarding the incident.
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What Happened
A Malaysia Airlines flight, identified as MH-184, was approaching the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata on Saturday night when the pilot encountered a bright laser beam. The aircraft was approximately eight nautical miles from the runway when the light, originating from the direction of Madhyamgram-Barasat, struck the cockpit. This caused the pilot to become momentarily disoriented, leading the flight to circle in the air before it could safely land at 11:25 pm.
The use of laser lights near airport flight paths is prohibited due to the significant safety risks posed to aviation. Following the safe landing of the 159 passengers and seven crew members, airport authorities initiated a formal investigation by filing a complaint with the local police at the NSCBI station. The incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding the impact of unauthorized light sources on flight operations during critical landing phases.
Key Facts
- Malaysia Airlines flight MH-184 was traveling from Kuala Lumpur to Kolkata.
- The flight carried 159 passengers and 7 crew members.
- The pilot reported being disoriented by a laser beam while eight nautical miles from the runway.
- The aircraft circled the airport before landing safely at 11:25 pm.
- Airport authorities have filed a police complaint regarding the incident.
- The laser beam was reportedly directed from the Madhyamgram-Barasat area.
The Timeline10
Every article on this story, in the order it was filed. We do not rank the outlets.
9 Aug
- TOIThe Times of IndiaLaser blinds pilot, Malaysia Airlines flight flies in circle before Kolkata landing
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Where This Is Being Covered5 languages
Languages
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- English5 outlets
- Hindiहिन्दी1 outlet
- Bengaliবাংলা2 outlets
- Teluguతెలుగు1 outlet
- Odiaଓଡ଼ିଆ1 outlet
Regional reach
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- No local newsroom
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- Where the story is
12 states with local coverage. Spread across the country, with no regional concentration. Also carried by 4 national mastheads.
About This Analysis
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