February 9, 2005
KXAS-TV
FORT WORTHTexas - An investigation is under way after an American Airlines pilot was temporarily blinded Sunday night during an approach to D/FW International Airport on a flight out of San Antonio. "It's malicious. There's no question about it," said pilot Gregg Overman, a member of Allied Pilots Association.
The laser reportedly hit the aircraft at about 8:30 p.m. near Grapevine Lake, briefly blinding the pilot. "The captain, who actually was not flying the approach -- the first officer was flying the approach -- but the captain personally did see the laser for a second or two," Overman said.
Doctors examined the pilot after the incident and found no permanent damage to his eyes.
However, the incident has raised concerns among pilots.
"We're looking at this as a potential safety hazard, and we will be aggressive about urging prosecution if anyone is caught doing this intentionally," Overman said.
American Airlines spokesman Tim Wagner said the company was cooperating with investigators.
"The safety of our employees is paramount. American Airlines is working with the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) and air traffic control to help them investigate, and is advising pilots to be careful," he said.
Despite calling the incident "malicious," Overman also said there could be other factors involved.
"We understand there are amateur astronomers who use these to point out different parts of constellations, planets and so forth, so it could have been inadvertent," Overman said. "But, regardless, you've got to be careful when you're using something that is a powerful device and it emits a light ray like that."
Meanwhile, pilots have been trained on ways to shield their eyes from the intense bright green beam.
The FBI is conducting a preliminary investigation. If located, the person responsible could face up to 20 years in prison if prosecuted.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6936776/