Easyjet flight targeted by laser

The incident happened at about 2100 GMT

A police inquiry has begun after a passenger jet was targeted with a laser as it approached Newcastle Airport.

Police said the device was shone at the Easyjet flight from Bristol as it flew over the Battle Hill area of Wallsend on Thursday night.

The pilot was not affected by the green laser and was able to land the Airbus 319 aircraft as normal.

Officers have carried out patrols in Battle Hill and have asked anyone with information to come forward.

Insp Pam Bridges, of Northumbria Police, said: "I want to remind people of the dangers of shining a laser at aircraft and also to point out the penalties, including custodial sentences, which are available to the courts."