Laser beam forces Malaysia Airlines flight to circle before safe landing at Kolkata airport

A Malaysia Airlines flight from Kuala Lumpur carrying 159 passengers was forced to circle mid-air before landing safely at Kolkata's Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport on Saturday night after a laser beam temporarily disoriented the pilot, airport sources said on Sunday.

Flight MH-184 was scheduled to land at 11.20 p.m. on August 8. As the aircraft approached the runway, approximately eight nautical miles out, the pilot reported a bright laser beam flashing towards the cockpit from the Madhyamgram-Barasat side, according to airport sources.

The sudden flash affected the pilot's vision, causing momentary disorientation. Unable to land as planned, the aircraft circled in the sky before making a second approach. It touched down safely at around 11.25 p.m., with all passengers and crew reported safe.

Following the incident, the airline informed airport authorities. The Kolkata airport authorities lodged a complaint with the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport Police Station, sources said.

Kolkata airport director Vikram Singh said the use of laser lights around the airport is prohibited, but such incidents occur occasionally and can potentially affect aircraft operations. He added that the matter has been brought to the notice of police authorities, who are investigating the case.

This is not the first time pilots at Kolkata airport have reported laser interference. Pilots have previously complained about laser beams affecting their vision during take-off and landing. During the 2025 Durga Puja festival, laser lights used near the Sreebhumi Sporting Club pandal reportedly caused concern among pilots, following which the laser show was stopped.

Aviation experts say intense laser beams can temporarily impair a pilot's vision, causing distraction and even temporary blindness-like effects. Such interference poses a significant risk during critical phases of flight, particularly take-off and landing, when pilots require full concentration and clear visibility.

The incident highlights the need for stricter enforcement of regulations prohibiting laser use near airports. Authorities have urged the public to avoid pointing lasers towards aircraft, warning that such actions endanger lives and could lead to legal consequences.

Police are currently investigating the source of the laser beam. No injuries or damage were reported from the incident, and the aircraft continued its scheduled operations after landing.