A Norwegian helicopter pilot has been acquitted for the second time after landing his private helicopter on his own rooftop. Morten Larsen faced charges for violating aviation laws during the incident that occurred last summer in Narvik.
The Civil Aviation Authority and police argued the landing created noise disturbance and potential safety risks. They charged Larsen with operating an aircraft carelessly and establishing a helicopter landing site without proper permits.
Both the district court and now the appeals court have found Larsen not guilty. The appeals court decision came despite a 4-3 split among judges favoring conviction.
"I have never done anything wrong in my entire life, and then you get treated like a criminal," Larsen stated. "I fly carefully and safety is the most important thing."
The case highlights Norway's strict aviation regulations while raising questions about property rights versus public safety. Larsen maintained he followed all safety protocols during the rooftop landing that neighbors reportedly found entertaining.
Prosecutors now consider appealing to Norway's Supreme Court. They have two weeks to decide whether to pursue the case further.
State Prosecutor Stig Løkkebakken confirmed they are carefully reviewing the judgment. "Based on how the appeals court has formulated itself, this is an area with little established practice," he noted.
During the appeals hearing, prosecutors sought a 24-day prison sentence while Larsen's defense demanded full acquittal. Defense attorney PÃ¥l Sveinsson argued there was no legal basis for conviction.
"It is not forbidden to fly over built-up areas at sufficient legally required height or to land on roofs," Sveinsson explained. He emphasized the flight must not violate prohibitions against careless flying that endangers others.
The Civil Aviation Authority acknowledges the ruling but notes it's not yet legally binding. They await the prosecution's decision on further appeals before making additional assessments.
This legal battle demonstrates the gray areas in Norway's aviation regulations regarding private property usage for aircraft operations. The close judicial split suggests even legal experts disagree on interpreting these aviation laws.