SUNDRE – The local RCMP detachment has issued a warning advising the public against aiming laser pointers at aircraft in light of a recently reported incident.
The Sundre RCMP received on April 4 at approximately 11 p.m. a complaint regarding a laser strike against an aircraft from Edmonton Navcan, according to a press release issued on June 5.
"An investigation was initiated, and investigators learned that two training aircrafts were flying over Sundre when they were both struck with a bright green laser," reads part of the statement, adding one of the pilots provided the RCMP with video footage of the incident.
"RCMP would like to remind members of the public that an incident like this is dangerous to not only the occupants of the aircraft, but the public on the ground as well," police said.
"The beams from a laser directed at a flying aircraft can result in the pilot and co-pilot being blinded, therefore affecting their ability to manoeuvre and operate the aircraft."
Those responsible for this particular incident remained unknown at the time police issued the statement, but RCMP have reason to believe it occurred from Snake Hill.
The Sundre department reminds the public that aiming a laser at an aircraft in Alberta is a federal crime under the Aeronautics Act that can lead to fines of up to $100,000 and/or imprisonment for up to five years.
Anyone with information about this crime or any other crime is asked to call the Sundre RCMP at 403-638-3675 or their local police. Those who prefer to remain anonymous may alternatively contact Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), by internet at www.tipsubmit.com, or by SMS – check your local Crimestoppers www.crimestoppers.ab.ca for instructions.
