Laser beam distracts Malaysia Airlines pilot during landing at Kolkata airport

Kolkata: A Malaysia Airlines flight from Kuala Lumpur faced a brief delay while landing at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport after a laser beam reportedly distracted the pilot, airport sources said on Sunday. Flight MH-184, which carried 159 passengers, was scheduled to land at 11.20 pm on Saturday, news agency PTI reported.

When the aircraft came within eight nautical miles of the runway, the pilot reportedly saw a bright laser beam directed towards the cockpit from the Madhyamgram-Barasat side.

Aircraft circles before landing

The laser beam reportedly affected the pilot’s vision and briefly disoriented him. The aircraft could not land at its scheduled time and circled in the air before attempting another approach. The flight landed safely at around 11.25 pm. All passengers and crew members remained safe, according to airport sources. Malaysia Airlines informed the airport authorities about the incident. Kolkata airport officials also filed a complaint at the NSCBI Airport Police Station.

Police investigate incident

Kolkata airport director Vikram Singh said the use of laser lights around the airport is prohibited. However, such incidents occur occasionally and can affect aircraft operations, PTI reported. Singh said airport officials had informed the police, who started an investigation into the matter.

Pilots have previously complained about laser beams affecting their vision during take-off and landing. These are critical stages of a flight when pilots require clear visibility and complete concentration.

Similar incidents reported earlier

A similar concern arose during the 2025 Durga Puja festival. Laser lights used near the Sreebhumi Sporting Club pandal reportedly caused problems for pilots approaching Kolkata airport. Authorities later stopped the laser show after pilots raised safety concerns.

Laser beams pose safety risk

Powerful laser beams can temporarily affect a pilot’s eyesight. They may cause distraction, disorientation and effects similar to temporary blindness. Such incidents can pose a serious aviation risk, particularly when an aircraft approaches a runway or takes off from an airport. Authorities prohibit the use of lasers near airports to protect pilots, passengers and aircraft operations.

Police will try to identify the source of the laser beam and those responsible for the incident, according to the report.