Post on 27-Mar-2015
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
Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011 Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation
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."
Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011 Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation
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
Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011 Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation
What’s the fuss about?
Occurrences
Is it impairing flight safety?
Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011 Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation
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
Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011 Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation
Why is it dangerous
1. Distraction
Visual effects - Glare - Flash blindness - After Image
Eye injury
Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011 Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation
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
Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011 Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation
Distraction = endangering
Distraction of flight crew: Disrupt cockpit procedures Disrupt crew coordination Disrupt ATC communication Degrade flight performance
Result: Safety is endangered
Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011 Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation
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
Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011 Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation
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
Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011 Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation
As seen from the flight deck
Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011 Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation
Factors of influence
Flight phase Aircraft flying pre–established routes Colour blindness HUD (Head up display) Pilot awareness and response
Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011 Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation
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
Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011 Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation
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)
Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011 Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation
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
Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011 Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation
Way forward?
Regarding lasers > 5 mW: Regulate trade / purchase / possession / use
Lasers (> 50 mW) = weapon
Development of mitigating technologies
Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011 Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation
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
Brussels, Eurocontrol, 10-11 Octobre 2011 Seminar on Laser Interference in Aviation
Thank you
Capt. Jo Schoenmakerj.schoenmaker@vnv-dalpa.nl
+31 6 149 76 125