Numerous laser attacks on aircraft flying over southern Vancouver Island have southwestern British Columbia pilots concerned.

Last week pilots flying from the Nanaimo airport (CYCD) area southeast to the region around Victoria airport (CYYJ) have been complaining about being targeted by land-based laser beams. At around midnight on July 28 there were numerous complaints to the RCMP of laser beams emanating from the Saltair and Chemainus areas on the Island.

Aircraft affected have included both light piston singles and helicopters flying VFR. One pilot complained about being hit by a green laser for 20 seconds.

One pilot of a Cessna also reported being struck on the underside of his wing while flying at 5,500 feet above sea level.

With flight training substantially opened up in the region in recent weeks, there has been an increase in light aircraft flights doing nighttime training.