Heathrow Named UK's Most Dangerous Airport for Laser Strikes

Heathrow Airport is the UK's most dangerous for laser strikes, figures released from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) have revealed.

In the first quarter this year there were 34 incidents involving a laser being shined at aircraft at the west London airport.

London City recorded the second highest number of incidents with 21.

In third spot was Birmingham with 18 incidents record, next was Leeds Bradford with 15.

Speaking to MailOnline Travel, a spokesperson for the CAA said: 'Lasers have been an issue for a number of years now, and it's no surprise to see Heathrow is the airport most affected.

"We do what we can to work with airports and the local community to educate people on the seriousness of shining lasers at aeroplanes."

"Shining a laser is a criminal offence which can see people arrested, taken to court and sent to jail. We would urge anyone who sees people shining lasers into the sky to call the police."

Lasers pose a serious threat to pilots as they can cause temporary blindness and eye damage.

Since it became a criminal offence in 2010, a handful of people have been prosecuted for shining a laser pen at aircraft. The pens can be purchased online for as little as 8 pounds.

Back in March this year, MailOnline reported how a security guard shone a laser pen at the cockpits of passenger planes and a police helicopter while bored on coffee breaks at work.

Mark Savage, 27, targeted aircraft coming in to land at Southampton Airport but claims he "was just mucking around" and "wasn't thinking".

Twice he aimed the beam at passenger planes, one of which was carrying 28 people - but despite risking lives with his reckless behaviour, Savage, of Hampshire, walked free from court.

Sparing him jail, a judge warned how his actions could have caused a crash and stated he "could not think of anything more dangerous" to do.

Recorder Michael Vere-Hodge QC made the decision after Southampton Crown Court heard how Savage had mental health problems.