Police investigate laser strike on pilot-training flight over Napier

Hawkes Bay Today

12 Aug, 2026 05:40 AMQuick Read

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A training flight was hit several times by a laser as it flew over Napier. Photo / Christine McKay

A laser strike turned around a training flight over Napier on Tuesday evening.

Police are making inquiries to find the offender.

The pilot was the sole occupant and as the aircraft flew over Awatoto about 8.30pm it was hit by a laser several times.

Area prevention manager Inspector Caroline Martin
said the pilot was able to return to Hawke’s Bay Airport safely.

“Laser strikes against aircraft are incredibly dangerous and outright stupid when you look at the potential consequences.