Section 2, Chapter 3 - Light Signals & Pyrotechnics

Question 1

What regulation must lights and pyrotechnic signals used to control aircraft and vehicles at aerodromes comply with?

Answer 1

Lights and pyrotechnic signals used to control aircraft and vehicles at aerodromes must comply with UK Reg (EU) No. 923/2012 SERA.3301.

Question 2

What are the responsibilities of aerodrome operators regarding signal pistols, pyrotechnics, and bird scaring cartridges?

Answer 2

Aerodrome operators are responsible for producing operating instructions and training and supervising staff to ensure the safe, correct, and effective use of signal pistols, pyrotechnics, and bird scaring cartridges.

Question 3

Where should appropriate misfire procedures for pyrotechnics be documented?

Answer 3

Appropriate misfire procedures should be contained in either MATS Part 2 or the Aerodrome Manual.

Question 4

How should signal pistols, pyrotechnics, and bird scaring cartridges be stored?

Answer 4

Signal pistols, pyrotechnics, and bird scaring cartridges should be stored in accordance with current firearms legislation.

Question 5

What are the guidelines for the operation of lasers, searchlights, and fireworks near aerodromes?

Answer 5

• Guidance for lasers, searchlights, and fireworks is in CAP 736.
• Light displays include outdoor lasers, searchlights, and fireworks.
• Light displays must not be directed at aircraft or aerodromes.
• Lasers and searchlights within 500 meters of extended runway centrelines (within 10 NM) must follow specific guidelines; similar rules apply within 3 NM of an aerodrome reference point, ensuring lights do not stray towards the aerodrome.
• Fireworks displays should not exceed 1500 ft above ground level and should avoid areas within 500 meters of runway centrelines (within 10 NM) or within 3 NM of the aerodrome reference point, unless published guidelines permit.
• CAA Airspace Regulation handles event notification by NOTAM and coordinates with relevant ANSPs.

Question 6

What are the concerns and procedures related to the malicious use of lasers against aircraft and ATS facilities?

Answer 6

• Threats: Lasers can cause distraction, glare, flash blindness, afterimage, and possibly eye injury to pilots and ATS personnel, especially during critical flight stages.
• Incidents: Most incidents are opportunistic, but coordinated laser attacks are increasing.
• Police Response: UK police take laser attacks seriously and respond promptly.
• ATSU Procedures: ATSUs should establish rapid reporting procedures with local police, detailed in the unit’s MATS Part 2, to aid in the apprehension of perpetrators.

Question 7

What actions should controllers take when a laser attack on an aircraft is reported?

Answer 7

• Acknowledge the pilot’s report.
• Gather detailed information from the pilot:
  1. Time of the attack.
  2. Altitude and position during the attack.
  3. Description of the laser light (color, continuous or pulsing).
  4. Avoiding action taken.
  5. Impact on vision/concentration.
• Prepare for potential maneuvers/operational techniques by the pilot to minimize impact.
• Dial 999 and report to the local police with all relevant information.
• Warn other pilots in the vicinity about the laser activity (duration of warnings as per MATS Part 2).
• Record details in the ATC watch log and report the occurrence according to Section 6.

Question 8

What measures should ATSU staff take if subjected to malicious illumination by lasers?

Answer 8

• Look away from the laser beam; do not attempt to find the source.
• Shield eyes; use sun blinds if feasible.
• Inform aircraft under control about the laser illumination.
• Avoid rubbing eyes to prevent corneal abrasion.
• Increase ambient light levels to minimize laser effects if possible.
• Consider handing over control to a colleague not exposed to the laser.
• If no local arrangements exist, inform a Supervisor to:
  1. Restrict traffic in/out of the aerodrome,
  2. Inform the aerodrome operator,
  3. Dial 999 and report to local police.
• Record the event in the ATC watch log and report as per Section 6.
• Refer to Appendix I (ALESA) for guidance on seeing an eye specialist after laser exposure.