Press Release

- For Immediate Release -

Use of Laser Lights and Aviation Safety

St. John's, 5th January 2010 - The Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority (ECCAA) has received, over the last few days, several reports of persons using laser lights to beam at aircraft during their final approach to the V. C. Bird International Airport. The laser light beams pose a serious threat to the safety and regularity of civil aviation in Antigua and Barbuda.

In addition, these acts can have far reaching implications for the economic development of Antigua and Barbuda, in particular, and the wider region, in general.

The public is hereby notified that such acts whether intended or not, jeopardize the safety of civil aviation and air transport in Antigua and Barbuda and as such may be construed as "Acts of Unlawful Interference" to aviation. Accordingly, the State is obligated by international convention to prosecute the person(s) responsible for such acts to the full extent of the Civil Aviation Act and other applicable Laws.

The ECCAA therefore cautions the perpetrators of these acts to discontinue their actions immediately as they can result in serious accident(s) thereby causing loss of lives and property. Furthermore, the public is warned that anyone found guilty of such acts will be prosecuted to the full extent of the Law.

The ECCAA reaffirms its commitment to ensure the safety, efficiency and regularity of civil aviation within Antigua and Barbuda and the other OECS Member States.