A Malaysia Airlines flight arriving from Kuala Lumpur was forced to circle after a laser beam disoriented the pilot near Kolkata airport on Saturday. All 159 passengers and crew landed safely, and authorities have filed a formal police complaint. This incident highlights ongoing aviation safety concerns regarding unauthorized laser usage in the flight path.
A Malaysia Airlines flight traveling from Kuala Lumpur to Kolkata faced a dangerous security incident on Saturday night when a high-intensity laser beam was directed at the aircraft’s cockpit. The incident occurred as flight MH-184 was completing its approach to the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, approximately eight nautical miles from the runway.
The laser flash caused the pilot to experience temporary vision impairment and disorientation. Following standard aviation safety protocols, the flight crew immediately initiated a go-around maneuver. The aircraft circled the area before successfully completing a safe landing at 11:25 PM. All 159 passengers and the crew members on board were reported safe, with no injuries resulting from the incident.
Authorities have confirmed that the laser beam originated from the vicinity of Madhyamgram-Barasat. In response, airport management has filed a formal complaint at the NSCBI Airport Police Station. An investigation is now underway to identify the source of the light, which is strictly prohibited near airport operational zones.
This incident highlights the persistent operational challenges faced by airlines regarding aviation safety in the approach paths to major airports. While this flight landed safely, such unauthorized laser usage poses a severe risk, particularly during the critical landing phase where pilot precision is essential. Intense light can lead to flash blindness, creating significant hazards for flight crews.
This is not an isolated event for the Kolkata airport region. Similar incidents involving laser displays—including a notable case during the 2025 Durga Puja near the Sreebhumi Sporting Club—have previously caused disruptions and led to official complaints. The repeated nature of these safety hazards underscores the difficulties airport authorities face in managing airspace security near urban areas. The next steps involve ongoing police efforts to monitor the area and enforce strict compliance with aviation safety regulations to protect incoming and outgoing flights.