Laser Attacks on RACQ LifeFlight Rescue Helicopters

targeted by night laser strikes


Article heading image for Laser Attacks on RACQ LifeFlight Rescue Helicopters

LifeFlight Australia have confirmed four laser strikes, on Toowomba-based aircraft, since Wednesday last week.

The first was reported just after midnight on Wednesday 10 April, the second at 6:30pm that night.

On Tuesday night, LifeFlight rescue crews were struck again, firstly around 6pm, then the second LifeFlight helicopter was targeted around 11pm.

The laser strikes on both helicopters occurred while the aircraft were flying over Glenvale.

On two of those occasions, the rescue helicopter was carrying a patient, requiring urgent medical care.

Laser strikes are an offence under the Civil Aviation Act – Sect 24 (1), being ‘interference with crew or aircraft’.

This offence is punishable by up to two years imprisonment.

LifeFlight Rescue helicopter pilot, Rob Moore, has condemned the actions of the member of the public who is targeting the rescue choppers.

“Shining a laser toward an aircraft is extremely dangerous as it has the potential to startle pilots and crew, resulting in significant distraction.”

The incidents have been reported to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, Air Services Australia and local police.

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17 April 2019




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