An Air India Express flight from Pune, carrying over 170 passengers, encountered a laser beam attack during its final approach to Chennai International Airport early Tuesday, marking the third such incident within a month.

According to airport sources, Flight IX2660 was just three nautical miles from touchdown on runway 25 at 1:03 am when the crew spotted a flashing white laser directed at the aircraft’s right side—a major safety risk during the critical descent phase. Authorities swiftly alerted the DGCA, airport police, and the airline’s station manager. No further disturbances were reported by subsequent flights.

This follows last week’s laser strike on an Emirates flight from Dubai carrying 300 passengers near St Thomas Mount, and a similar episode in May. All incidents occurred close to densely populated zones under flight paths, where laser use is strictly prohibited.

In response, Greater Chennai Police had already issued public advisories against using laser pointers, hot air balloons, and tethered kites near approach paths. But enforcement concerns persist.

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) reaffirmed its commitment to resolving the issue with urgency but criticised “sensational” media coverage, insisting pilots maintained composure and no emergencies occurred. AAI also warned that disseminating unverified or dramatic reports could invite legal consequences.

Investigations are ongoing, and AAI is collaborating with pilots to trace the source of these hazardous beams.