The Government of Canada has issued an interim order to ban the possession of some battery-operated handheld lasers to protect aircraft from laser attacks.
The Interim Order prohibits the possession of laser more than 1mW outside of a private dwelling without a legitimate purpose.
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It applies to municipalities situated within greater Montréal, Toronto, and Vancouver regions, as well as a 10km radius around airports and certified heliports across Canada.
Canada Transport Minister Marc Garneau said: “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.”
Transport Canada and delegated law enforcement are now authorised to issue fines to anyone caught violating the order.
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By GlobalDataMaximum fines of $3,760 and $18,801 have been decided for guilty individuals and corporations respectively.
Transport Canada is also planning to make laser attacks on aircraft subject to immediate fines under the Canadian Aviation Regulations.
Canada has been organising various safety awareness campaigns on the impact of laser attacks on aircraft, but incidents are still occurring across the country, putting the safety of passengers and flight crew at risk.
Pointing a laser into the aircraft cockpit can distract the pilot during the most critical stages of take-off, descent and landing.
