2023 - A Record Year for Dangerous Airplane Laser Strikes

By Rockland Daily Staff

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) received 13,304 reports from pilots last year, a 41 percent increase over 2022 and a record that tops all previous years.

As many types of high-powered lasers can incapacitate pilots, who can be flying airplanes with hundreds of passengers, shining a laser at an aircraft is a serious safety threat.

Pilots have reported 313 injuries due to lasers since the FAA began recording data on laser strikes in 2010.

"The FAA is committed to maintaining the safest air transportation system in the world. Aiming a laser at an aircraft is a serious safety hazard that puts everyone on the plane and on the ground at risk," said FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker in an FAA press release on Wednesday.

Fines of up to $11,000 per violation and up to $30,800 for multiple laser incidents can be issued to those pointing lasers that disrupt flights. Criminal penalties from federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies can also be considered for violators.

"Like many crimes, there's a need for public education, outreach, and cooperation to address this safety risk. We encourage you to report laser strikes to the FAA via our website or to your local law enforcement agency," said Whitaker.