SECTION 2: CHAPTER 3 LIGHT SIGNALS AND PYROTECHNICS Flashcards
Light Signals and Pyrotechnics
Lights and pyrotechnic signals used to control aircraft and vehicles at aerodromes are to comply with those described in (EU) 923/2012 SERA.3301.
Instructions and Training
It is the responsibility of each aerodrome operator to produce operating instructions and to train and supervise staff to ensure that signal pistols, pyrotechnics and bird scaring cartridges are used safely, correctly and effectively.
Misfires
Appropriate misfire procedures shall be contained in either MATS Part 2 or the Aerodrome Manual.
Storage
Signal pistols, pyrotechnics and bird scaring cartridges will be kept in accordance with current firearms legislation.
Lasers and searchlights are grouped together under the generic term ‘Light Displays’. Although fireworks present less of a problem than lasers and searchlights, the effect and hazard is such that they are included in the term ‘Light Displays’. Light displays also includes the outdoor use of lasers, searchlights and fireworks for research measurement and non-entertainment activities.
Light displays must never be directed at, or towards, aircraft or aerodromes.
5.4 Specific guidelines apply to light displays using lasers and searchlights within 500 metres either side of extended runway centrelines within ten miles of an aerodrome. Within three miles of an aerodrome but not on the extended centreline, the same guidelines apply but with the addition that any light should not stray towards the aerodrome or the extended centreline. In both cases, information should be passed to any affected aircraft. If a pilot requests that the lights are extinguished or if ATC consider this necessary, then action should be taken without delay.
Guidelines have also been laid down for fireworks displays which should be limited to a height of 1
1500 ft above ground level and should not take place within 500 metres either side of the extended runway centreline within five miles of an aerodrome, or within two miles radius of an aerodrome. However, published guidelines apply if a fireworks display is to take place within these parameters.
5.6 For the light displays described above, CAA Airspace Regulation is responsible for the promulgation of the event by NOTAM and co-ordinating with the relevant ANSP as required.
Malicious Use of Lasers against Aircraft and ATS Facilities
The targeting of aircraft and ATS installations by lasers poses a threat to aircraft safety and security through the physiological impact upon pilots and ATS personnel. This can include distraction, glare, temporary flash blindness, afterimage and possibly eye injury. Current expert opinion is that it is extremely unlikely, except over very short distances, that laser light would pose a significant threat of permanent or long-term personal injury. At critical stages of flight, however, distractions caused to aircrew or ATS personnel by lasers may threaten aircraft safety.
5A.2 Whilst the majority of incidents appear to be the result of opportunists, the number of reported events is increasing significantly, and reports of aircraft being subjected to illumination from multiple co-ordinated lasers have been received.
5A.3 UK police forces treat all reports of laser attacks upon aircraft and ATS facilities very seriously, and will respond to any reported activity. ATSUs are encouraged to establish procedures with their local police authority to facilitate the rapid reporting of all such incidents, and the passing of all information that may assist in the apprehension of those responsible. Such guidance should be published in the unit MATS Part 2.
Malicious use of Lasers against Aircraft
5B.1 Where local arrangements have not been established, controllers should take the following actions whenever a report of a laser attack upon an aircraft is received:
(1) Acknowledge the report from the pilot;
(2) Seek as much information regarding the incident as possible from the pilot, including:
(a) the time of the attack;
(b) altitude and position at the time of the attack;
(c) description of the laser light i.e. colour, whether continuous or pulsing etc;
(d) any avoiding action taken;
(e) any impact upon vision / concentration.
(3) Anticipate the need for the pilot to adopt manoeuvres/operational techniques to minimise the impact on the aircraft;
(4) Dial 999, and pass all relevant information to the local police;
(5) Warn pilots of other aircraft in the vicinity that laser activity has been reported. The duration of providing these warnings will be stated in MATS Part 2;
(6) Record the details in the ATC watch log and complete an ATC Occurrence Report SRG 1602.
Malicious use of Lasers against ATS facilities
5C.1 ATSUs should provide guidance to their staff in the event of being subjected to malicious illumination by lasers. Measures should include:
(1) Look away from the laser beam if possible. Do not attempt to find the light source by staring at the laser;
(2) Shield eyes and consider the feasibility of lowering/raising ‘sun blinds’ to reduce the effects of the laser;
(3) Advise aircraft under your control that a laser is illuminating you;
(4) Avoid rubbing the eyes to reduce the potential for corneal abrasion;
(5) Consider the feasibility of increasing ambient light levels to minimise any further illumination effects;
(6) Consider handing over the control position to a colleague in a position not exposed to the laser;
(7) Where local arrangements have not been established, inform a Supervisor who in turn can: decide on restricting traffic in/out of the aerodrome; inform the aerodrome operator; dial 999 and pass all relevant information to the local police;
(8) Ensure the event is recorded in the ATC watch log and reported for further investigation by completing an ATC Occurrence Report (SRG 1602).
5C.2 Guidance to ATSU staff in making a decision on whether or not to see an eye specialist following exposure to a laser beam is provided at Appendix I ‘Aviation Laser Exposure Self-Assessment (ALESA)’.
