This SAE Aerospace Recommended Practice (ARP) provides information and guidance for the control of hazardous laser energy in the navigable airspace. This document provides guidance to all laser proponents and the FAA on the optimal use of control measures during propagation of a laser beam in the navigable airspace. This document does not cover control measures already set forth in federal, state, and local regulations for the safe operations of lasers. FAA will review control measures in their aeronautical study of proposed outdoor laser operations.

Purpose:

The purpose of this document is to establish a recommended practice for controlling laser systems to ensure the safe co-existence of aircraft operations and various types of laser activities. This document describes means for mitigating hazards related to laser beam propagation in the navigable airspace.

Field of Application:

SAE AS4970 and ANSI Z136.6 provide guidance and information for the evaluation of laser operations in navigable airspace. Due to operational/mission requirements, some laser beams may exceed the maximum permissible exposure (MPE) limits or visual interference levels as defined in FAA Order 7400.2, ANSI Z136.1, and ANSI Z136.6. Control measures designed to reduce the laser beam hazards to air navigation are discussed.