Let’s talk lasers

We want Canadians to feel safe on the ground and in the sky.

Laser attacks on aircraft happen every day and put public safety and flight crews at risk. Lasers distract, disorient and can cause eye damage for pilots, resulting in high-risk situations during critical phases of flight.

We have put in place a new safety measure to enhance aviation and public safety by restricting where people can have battery-powered hand-held lasers over 1 milliwatt (mW). It is called an Interim Order.

Violating the Interim Order allows authorities to fine you immediately. We are also exploring more permanent solutions to ban the possession of hand-held lasers.

We have developed tools to help you understand the new restrictions and avoid a fine. These tools include:

• new measures for aviation safety
• a laser map to help you plan using your laser in a public place

We want to hear from businesses, retailers, consumers and air travellers about the best way to protect the public from unsafe use of lasers.

To participate:

Join our discussion forum via the “Have Your Say” tab. The forum will be open until August 27, 2018.