Heavy fines for aiming laser pointers at aircraft

The Transport Police Department yesterday identified two Ialoveni minors who repeatedly shined laser pointers at aircraft. Their parents now face heavy fines. The Department noted that the an increasing number of airlines have lately signaled instances of children playing with laser pens aiming them at airplanes. The Department warned that this can dazzle pilots and the effects can be disastrous during landing, take-off or flying at low altitudes. The Ministry of the Interior said in a press release that those responsible may face criminal charges of “hooliganism” that carry fines ranging from 4,000 to 14,000 lei or community service. The parents of the culprit minors also face administrative punishment for failure to “educate and instruct” their children.