Authorities probe laser beam threat to planes at central Vietnam airport

Vo Van Dong, chairman of Binh Son District in Quang Ngai Province next to Quang Nam, said Tuesday the district police have begun a probe after a complaint by airport authorities.

Many flight crews had complained that their planes were targeted by laser beams while landing at area No.32, which is situated right next to Binh Son District.

"This is a serious situation that threatens aviation safety," Dong said.

The airport authorities said a green laser was shone often at the starboard side of landing aircraft, and this does not just threaten the flight’s safety but also the health of the pilots and passengers.

They also called on Quang Ngai authorities to check all billboards and laser lights near the airport to see if they could affect the operation of aircraft.

The airfield was originally established during the Vietnam War as Chu Lai Air Base by the U.S. army.

Shining laser beams at aircraft attract a fine of up to VND40 million ($1,750).