Police chase culprit after passenger plane lasered

File photo / Steven McNicholl

Counties Manukau Police are investigating the lasering of a large passenger plane as it was on its final approach to Auckland International Airport overnight.

Inspector Peter Raynes said air traffic control made an emergency call to the Police Northern Communications Centre at midnight as the pilot of the aircraft attempted to land the plane.

"Distracting a pilot can have very tragic circumstances and can be potentially catastrophic. Fortunately the plane landed without incident," Mr Raynes said.

"Police would like to hear from anyone with any information on who was responsible for this incident so this person cannot offend again."

Alternatively information can be left anonymously on the CrimeStoppers Crimeline, 0800 555 111.

Any person intending to cause danger or having reckless disregard for the safety of passengers on an aeroplane could face up to 14 years imprisonment.

- Newstalk ZB