Two Teenagers Arrested After Laser Attack on Aircraft Over Liverpool
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Two boys, aged just 16 and 13, have been arrested following dangerous laser incidents targeting aircraft over Liverpool in the early hours of Friday, 18 July.
According to Merseyside Police, the National Police Air Service (NPAS) helicopter was en route to an emergency response when it was struck by a green laser beam, reportedly originating from the West Derby area.
Shortly afterwards, air traffic control at Liverpool John Lennon Airport also reported laser interference affecting incoming flights, raising serious safety concerns for passengers and pilots.
The NPAS crew, using advanced tracking equipment, returned to the area and identified a suspect property on Haydn Road, where local officers detained the two suspects.
“Two teenage boys have been arrested on suspicion of directing a laser at an aircraft, a serious criminal offence under aviation legislation,” said a police spokesperson.
Boys Remain in Custody as Enquiries Continue
Both boys, who are from the West Derby area, remain in police custody as officers continue their investigation. The laser pointer believed to have been used has been seized.
“Shining a laser at an aircraft is not only illegal, it is incredibly dangerous and can have life-threatening consequences for those on board,” the spokesperson added. “We take this behaviour extremely seriously.”
Aviation Safety Threat
Laser attacks on aircraft are considered a serious aviation offence under the Laser Misuse (Vehicles) Act 2018, which allows for sentences of up to five years in prison, unlimited fines, or both.
Such attacks can temporarily blind or distract pilots, putting aircraft, crew, and passengers at risk — especially during critical flight stages such as takeoff and landing.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and UK police forces have repeatedly warned the public about the risks of laser misuse.
Appeal for Information
Anyone with further information regarding the incident is asked to contact Merseyside Police on 101 quoting incident reference 18/07/25 – Laser Incident. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
