Green Laser Illuminates UA Cockpit

October 29, 2007

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A green laser beam shined on a 50-passenger commuter aircraft minutes after its departure from the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport Wednesday night, officials said yesterday.The beam illuminated the right side of the cockpit as the plane was about 3,000 feet off the ground and four miles north of the airport, the Federal Aviation Administration reported last night. There were no injuries, and the United Airlines Flight 7914 continued to its destination at Washington, D.C., said Holly Baker, an FAA spokesman.

The aircraft was an Embraer 145, she said.

Manchester police yesterday said the FBI has joined an investigation to determine the origin of the light.

“We’re just trying to find people who may have information or may have observed anything,” said FBI spokesman Gail Marcinkiewicz. “Certainly it’s concerning enough to have law enforcement respond to it.”

Manchester police said the incident occurred about 7:05 p.m. There is no indication that the beam was intended as a threat or an effort to disrupt air travel. They said the light illuminated the aircraft briefly.

The Transportation Security Administration contacted the Manchester police about the incident.

Police said the laser most likely came from somewhere in an area bordered by Maple, Pine, Valley and Spruce streets. The 18-square block neighborhood is home to Gill Stadium, Beech Street School, corner stores and a few churches. Many residents live in three-story apartment buildings, many with porches from which one could easily point a laser.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the FBI at 472-2224, Manchester police at 668-8711 or Manchester Crimeline at 624-4040.

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