By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

criminal offence

Sylvan Lake RCMP investigating laser pointed at plane

Jul 30, 2021 | 10:49 AM

Sylvan Lake RCMP are investigating after a green laser beam was allegedly pointed at the cockpit of an aircraft while it was in the air near the central Alberta town.

RCMP say a report came in at about 4:10 a.m. on July 26.

“The investigation into this incident is ongoing,” said S/Sgt. Jeff McBeth, Detachment Commander. “Pointing a laser at an aircraft presents an enormous risk to the crew and passengers of the plane. The Sylvan Lake RCMP will take a zero tolerance approach towards these cases.”

In a statement, NAV Canada notes that what may seem harmless can actually be deadly.

“A laser directed at an aircraft can fill a cockpit with blinding light and puts the pilot, crew, passengers, and people on the ground at risk.”

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Intentionally interfering with the performance of a flight crew is a criminal offence.

Offenders can be charged under the Aeronautics Act, either by fine, jail time, or a combination thereof, up to a maximum of $100,000 and/or five years in prison.

“Pointing a laser at an aircraft is a serious offence and an extremely dangerous act,” said S/Sgt. McBeth. “We are asking members of the public who witness or know of any such incident to report it to the police immediately.”

Sylvan Lake RCMP are asking the public’s assistance for any information in relation to this incident, or identifying those responsible. Contact Sylvan Lake RCMP at 403-858-7200 or your local police. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.