Pilots at Karachi's Jinnah International Airport have recently voiced their concerns about an alarming surge in laser light strikes during takeoff and landing procedures, according to sources cited by ARY News. These complaints have arisen from both national and international airline pilots, who have witnessed an uptick in incidents over the past week.
The implications of such mischievous acts are far-reaching, posing a grave threat to the safety of everyone on board, as these laser strikes can severely disrupt a pilot's vision, leading to distraction and disorientation.
Reports indicate that the laser strikes are originating from various residential areas in close proximity to Karachi's airport, including Shah Faisal Colony, Pehlwan Goth, and Sohrab Goth. These areas have become hotspots for this dangerous activity, causing immense difficulties for pilots attempting to navigate their aircraft during takeoff and landing. Consequently, pilots have taken the initiative to inform Air Traffic Control (ATC) about these threats, given the escalating nature of the problem within the past week.
The situation escalated further when flights bound for Dubai and Jeddah from Karachi encountered laser light strikes, further underscoring the urgency of addressing this issue. In response to these developments, the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has taken notice of the incidents following their coverage by ARY News.
To address the growing concern, a meeting of the district administration has been scheduled for September 28, reflecting the gravity of the situation and the need for coordinated efforts to tackle this threat to aviation safety.