‘Could Have Been a Disaster’: Aviation Expert Warns After Laser Hits Plane in Patna

Patna: Aviation experts have voiced serious concerns after a high-intensity laser beam struck the cockpit of an IndiGo flight during its final approach to Patna’s Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport, one of the country’s most challenging airports for landing and takeoff due to its short runway.

The incident occurred on Thursday evening when flight 6E-653, arriving from Pune, was hit by a laser beam suspected to have originated from a nearby DJ or event setup. The beam momentarily disrupted the aircraft’s balance during descent, but the pilot’s swift response averted a potential accident. All passengers and crew landed safely at around 6.40pm, and the aircraft later departed for Ahmedabad without further incident.

Aviation safety expert Mirza Faizan, widely recognized for his pioneering contributions to aerospace and aviation safety technologies, described the incident as “serious” and warned it could have “easily escalated into a major aviation disaster.”

“Statistically, nearly 50% of all air accidents occur during takeoff and landing, as these are among the most critical and workload-intensive phases of flight,” Faizan told PatnaPress. “Given the aircraft’s proximity to the ground, there is minimal margin for error. A momentary distraction like a laser strike can have fatal consequences.”

Faizan, originally from Patna, now plays a leading role in advancing research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the United States. He called for the swift identification and investigation of the laser source, emphasising that enforcement must be accompanied by public awareness. “Pointing lasers at aircraft is not just reckless—it is a criminal act that endangers lives in the air and on the ground,” Faizan added.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident and assured strict action against those responsible. Officials said laser beams aimed at planes are a punishable offence under Indian aviation law, with potential jail terms and fines.

This incident has once again highlighted the vulnerability of Patna’s airport, where limited runway length and dense population around the airspace leave little room for error. Aviation authorities have urged the public to exercise caution and immediately report any use of laser lights near flight paths.