Laser on runway: Pilot in Palma dazzled during approach – flight from Cologne lands safely

Dangerous beam during the approach

On Saturday evening there was an incident at Palma airport that could easily have gone wrong: according to air traffic controllers, the pilot of a Ryanair flight from Cologne was dazzled by a laser during the landing approach. The jet, registration FR7208, touched down on the runway without further incident despite the occurrence.

No joking with laser pointers

The air traffic authority responded immediately on social channels and reminded the public that laser pointers have no place in airspace. Such beams can temporarily impair visibility and spatial orientation in the cockpit. In short: this is not a harmless prank — and the consequences can be serious.

There was a stronger police presence on site in the evening, especially around Terminal B and along the Paseo Marítimo, where people with small handheld lights were repeatedly spotted. Travelers reported that boarding proceeded calmly; some continued to talk on their phones about the situation while on the taxiway.

Penalties and proceedings

Anyone who aims a laser at an aircraft risks severe penalties. Depending on the legal framework and investigation, fines can reach high five-figure to six-figure amounts. Authorities stressed that established protocols exist: flight crews, air traffic controllers and police know how to act in such a case to minimize risk and panic.

More incidents recently

The incident is part of a series of events: almost two weeks ago flight operations at the airport were suspended for about half an hour after a drone was sighted near the runways. Such events lead to increased checks and raise awareness among staff and passengers alike.

For most people involved it was a brief scare. The pilot landed safely, the aircraft left the runway and operations continued. Nevertheless, the news left a bad taste for many Mallorcans and travelers. I later spoke briefly with an airport employee at the information desk — she rolled her eyes and said, "Some people really have no idea what happens back there in the cockpit."

The investigations are ongoing. Authorities welcome tips from the public and ask people to be careful and not to point lasers toward air traffic.