Canadians expect to feel safe on the ground and in the sky. Despite past and ongoing safety awareness campaigns, there are still too many cases of laser attacks on aircraft. These attacks continue to put the safety of Canadians and flight crew at risk, prompting immediate safety measures to restrict battery-operated hand-held lasers, and further action to strengthen enforcement powers.

“I take very seriously the increased risk to aviation safety and to people on the ground caused by lasers. That is why I am proceeding with these new safety measures which take effect immediately—to enhance the safety of aviation and the public while we work to bring into force permanent regulations.”

The Honourable Marc Garneau                                       
Minister of Transport

“Crime Stoppers programs across Canada are pleased to partner with Transport Canada to create awareness and education on the severe risk to public safety caused by shining laser lights at aircraft. We encourage the public to report to the police, or anonymously to Crime Stoppers, anyone that puts at risk any aircraft, its passengers and crew by committing this senseless act.”

David Forster
President, Canadian Crime Stoppers Association

“We commend the federal government on the Interim Order, and look forward to seeing the positive benefits that will come about through proposed amendments to existing regulations, along with increased education and awareness, and the implementation of additional tools for law enforcement and Transport Canada inspectors.”

Captain Dan Adamus
President, Air Line Pilots Association Canada

• In 2017, Transport Canada received 379 reports of laser attacks in Canadian airspace. From January 1 to April 30, 2018, there have been 63 reported laser attacks.

• Pointing a laser at an aircraft is not only illegal, it is extremely dangerous and puts pilots, passengers, and people on the ground at serious risk.

• Laser attacks distract pilots, cause glare that affects their vision, or worse, temporarily blinds them. Pilots often report suffering from eye irritation or light sensitivity after being struck in the eye by a laser, which could seriously affect their control of the aircraft and their ability to fly safely. This puts everyone’s safety at risk.

• Transport Canada is seeking feedback on laser use and safety issues and invites Canadians to share their views by participating in an online discussion forum, Let’s Talk Lasers.

Associated links

• Aiming a laser at an aircraft – Not a bright idea
• Use hand-held lasers legally and safely
• Laser safety measure: questions and answers
• Where hand-held lasers over 1 milliwatt are prohibited (interactive map)
• Video – Pointing a laser at aircraft is a crime

Delphine Denis
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Marc Garneau
Minister of Transport, Ottawa
613-991-0700
delphine.denis@tc.gc.ca

Media Relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613-993-0055
media@tc.gc.ca