Skip to main content

Putting an end to laser attacks on planes

By [email protected] - 22nd December 2016 - 14:55

Since 2009 over 10,000 aircraft in the UK alone have been targeted by hand held lasers. The reckless targeting of aircraft poses a significant and growing threat to aviation safety. However it is often difficult to obtain evidence to secure a conviction and existing laser detection equipment is very expensive. Scientists at the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) have developed an innovative app that analyses laser dazzle events, making it quicker and easier for the police to arrest and prosecute offenders, deter the targeting of aircraft and allow pilots to take steps to prevent themselves from being dazzled. The Laser Event Recorder app (LERapp) has been developed using an iPhone. It utilises the inbuilt camera, GPS and connectivity to record, analyse and communicate details of the incident. LERapp could also be used for non-aviation users including car drivers and police officers. www.dstl.gov.uk