Laser beam forces plane to return to Heathrow

Portia Arthur

February 15, 2016 12:02 PM

The British Airline Pilots Association has called for more action in tackling the growing use of lasers.

Virgin Atlantic plane

A Virgin Atlantic flight heading to New York had to return to Heathrow after its pilot was dazzled by a laser beam from an unknown source.

The co-pilot reported feeling sick after the incident and it was decided it was safer to cut short the transatlantic crossing and return to Heathrow.

According to Virgin Atlantic spokesman, Jaime Fraser said "the decision was a "precautionary measure". "We are working with the authorities to identify the source of the laser."

The flight was grounded overnight, and the 252 passengers put up in hotels.

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No arrest has been made yet.

It believes lasers should classified as an offensive weapon.

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Portia Arthur