Purpose and public forewarning
- The circular responds to reports showing an alarming increase of incidents where laser beams or high intensity lights are projected from ground near airport areas and flight paths.
- The circular warns that laser attacks targeting flight crew can cause distraction, disruption, disorientation, and in extreme cases, incapacitation.
- The circular emphasizes that such effects can adversely affect the flight crew’s ability to carry out responsibilities, especially during take-off and landing.
Prohibited act near airports and flight paths
- Any unauthorized emission of laser beams or high intensity lights from ground proximate to airport areas and flight paths is treated as interference to safe navigation of aircraft.
- Such interference is prohibited under Section 81 (b) (6) of Republic Act No. 9497.
- The prohibition covers projection/emission activity from ground proximate to airport areas and flight paths.
Legal basis and criminal penalty
- Section 81 (b) (6) of Republic Act No. 9497 (The Civil Aviation Authority Act of 2008) provides that interference to safe navigation of aircraft through the prohibited acts is punishable.
- The penalty is imprisonment for not more than three (3) years.
- The penalty is also a fine not less than PHP 50,000.00 but not exceeding PHP 500,000.00.
- The court determines whether the offender is punished by imprisonment, the fine, or both.
Responsible conduct and guidance
- The public is forewarned that any unauthorized emission of laser beams or high intensity lights in the covered areas is prohibited.
- The circular issues guidance and precaution to prevent incidents that can endanger aircraft operations, particularly during take-off and landing.
- Compliance is required to avoid acts amounting to interference with safe navigation of aircraft.