Chennai in Shock: Emirates Pilots Blinded by Laser, Emergency Maneuver Averts Disaster on Busy Runway
A Dubai-Chennai Emirates flight was forced to abort its landing after a laser beam blinded the pilots—raising alarm over rising aviation risks.
- 304 passengers aboard Emirates Flight EK542
- 5+ laser incidents reported at Chennai Airport in May 2025
- 144 laser-related aviation events in India during 2023
- 6 nautical miles from touchdown when pilots were struck
An ordinary night at Chennai International Airport turned tense as Emirates Flight EK542 from Dubai became the latest target in a widening series of dangerous laser strikes. Just six nautical miles from a safe landing, a powerful green laser beam suddenly illuminated the cockpit, forcing the highly trained pilots to abort their landing.
The blinding light left the crew momentarily disoriented—a grave risk during the most critical seconds of approach. After reporting the incident to Air Traffic Control, the pilots circled back and, with steely nerves, landed safely on the main runway’s Guindy end. Greater Chennai Police and the Airports Authority of India issued urgent warnings, as this event marks yet another alarming entry in what’s becoming a persistent aviation safety crisis.
Q: What Actually Happened on Board?
During a calm descent, the pilots of the Boeing 777-300ER were hit by a piercing green laser. Instantly, visibility was slashed. The aircraft, carrying 304 passengers, performed a go-around—a move that’s rare and always high-stakes. Quick action, training, and excellent coordination between flight crew and ground controllers averted potential disaster.
How Dangerous Are Laser Strikes for Pilots?
Lasers can distract or temporarily blind pilots in seconds. At low altitude, such as during landing or takeoff, any loss of focus can spiral into serious emergencies. Experts at International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation highlight that these “laser attacks” pose a very real threat to life in the air and on the ground.
Even brief exposure to high-powered laser beams can trigger flash blindness or create after-images lasting seconds to minutes—time enough to cause loss of situational awareness or control. In India alone, official data reveals 144 incidents involving laser interference in 2023. The number is expected to spike as laser devices become increasingly inexpensive and accessible.
Q: Where Are These Lasers Coming From?
Authorities find it hard to pin down culprits. Many incidents occur during local celebrations, weddings, or festivals, where laser pointers or party lights are misused near airport zones. Some come from children’s toys; others from high-powered, event-grade equipment. Regardless of intent, the fallout is the same—major safety risk and legal action.
How Are Officials Responding to This Aviation Threat?
The Greater Chennai Police and Airports Authority of India have launched public campaigns, warning that shining lasers at aircraft is not only dangerous, but also a criminal offense under Section 125 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Offenders risk hefty fines and jail time. Law enforcement regularly patrols airport perimeters, but the challenge remains immense as events and devices proliferate.
How Can the Public Help Prevent Laser Strikes?
Airport officials urge citizens to be vigilant. Report any suspicious laser use near airports immediately. Say no to laser pointers or balloon launches in airport approach zones. Organizers and event managers are advised to check their lighting setups and avoid outdoor laser displays. The message is clear: public awareness saves lives.
What’s Next for Aviation Safety in India?
With the Directorate General of Civil Aviation ramping up its National Aviation Safety Plan 2024-2028, greater collaboration, tougher enforcement, and innovative surveillance tech are on the horizon. But experts say that lasting progress hinges on community buy-in.
Your Action Checklist: Keep Our Skies Safe!
- Never aim lasers or reflective devices at aircraft
- Report suspicious activity near airports to police immediately
- Organizers: Avoid laser use, hot air balloons, light-emitting objects in airport approach zones
- Educate your friends and family about aviation safety risks
Spread awareness—help keep Chennai and all Indian airports safe. Stay alert. Stay informed. Take action today!
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