Module 8 Scenario Discussion: Commercial Spaceflight Operations and Aviation Crimes & Security
Because you are an employee in the aviation industry, you chose to live in a residential community not far from the airport. Tonight, a children’s party is going on next door, and it sounds like the kids and their parents are having fun. As the noise level increases, you suspect that the parents may be consuming an ample quantity of alcoholic drinks. Stepping outside to take a look, you see that the partiers are playing with a green laser pointer and appear to be trying
to illuminate an aircraft in flight.
If they succeed, what could result?
If their activity comes to the attention of law enforcement, what legal consequences might result?
What will you do and why?
Scenario 2: Aviation Crimes and Security
According to Hamilton and Nilsson (2020) in their book "Practical Aviation & Aerospace Law," illuminating an aircraft in flight with a green laser pointer can cause temporary blindness or distraction for pilots, potentially putting the aircraft and its passengers at risk. This manner is deemed a profound safety risk and is prohibited under federal law. As noted by Hamilton and Nilsson (2020), if the action reaches the awareness of law enforcement, "Whoever knowingly aims the beam of a laser pointer at an aircraft in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States, or at the flight path of such an aircraft, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than five years, or both."
As an employee in the aviation industry, it is vital to ensure the safety of aircraft and passengers. I would communicate with the parties and clarify the severe safety hazard and potential legal consequences of their actions. I may contact law enforcement and inform them of the incident, trusting the laser employed and the reply I get. By doing so, I am fulfilling my proficient obligations as an aviation worker and donating to the general safety of the flying public. As Aviation Operations Sergeant, when pilots report this issue, they give the 5 W's and coordinate to
file a report with the police department so they can patrol the area. References:
Hamilton, J.S. and Nilsson, S. (2020). Practical Aviation & Aerospace Law. Newcastle, WA: Aviation Supplies & Academics, Inc.
