Laser strikes on aircraft at all-time high, FAA says

(Gray News) - Laser strikes on aircraft reached an all-time high, with the Federal Aviation Administration receiving 13,304 reports from pilots last year, a 41% increase over 2022, according to the FAA.

Shining a laser at an aircraft is a serious safety threat and can incapacitate pilots, according to the FAA.

Pilots have reported 313 injuries since the FAA started 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.

People who shine lasers at aircraft face fines of up to $11,000 per violation and up to $30,000 for multiple laser incidents. They can also face criminal penalties from federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. It is also a federal crime, according to an FAA video.

“Like many crimes, there’s a need for education, outreach, and cooperation from the public 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,” Whitaker said.

The FAA encourages people to report laser strikes to the FAA and local law enforcement agencies.