Pilots call for lasers to be classed as offensive weapons
New York-bound jet is forced to return to Heathrow when beam dazzles flier at 8,000ft
British pilots have called for lasers to be classed as offensive weapons after the First Officer of a Virgin Atlantic jet bound for New York was dazzled in a laser attack as he returned to Heathrow.
British Airline Pilots Association (Balpa) general secretary Jim McAuslan said: 'This is not an isolated incident. Aircraft are attacked with lasers at an alarming rate and with lasers with ever-increasing strength.
'It is an incredibly dangerous thing to do. Shining a laser at an aircraft puts that aircraft, its crew and all the passengers on board at completely unnecessary risk.
Read more:
Read next: ZOA Calls on Heritage President to Retract Support for Tucker or Resign