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Laser Strikes on Commercial Aircraft: FAA Investigates and Warns of Serious Consequences

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Federal investigators are examining a spate of laser incidents that occurred on Monday night at Boston Logan International Airport, where several commercial aircraft were struck by green lasers. The pilots of American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines reported being illuminated by the laser while flying near the airport, forcing air traffic controllers to issue a warning to all aircraft in the area. The incidents highlight the growing concern of laser strikes on commercial aircraft, which can cause temporary blindness or incapacitation of pilots.

Key Takeaways:

  • At least three commercial aircraft reported being struck by a green laser while flying near Boston Logan International Airport on Monday night.
  • The incidents occurred between 600 feet and 2 miles north of the airport, with a witness describing the laser as "strobing" even after the aircraft had turned away.
  • The FAA has reported 12,840 laser strikes in the past year, with a total of 5,913 incidents so far this year.
  • Shining a laser at a commercial aircraft is a federal crime punishable by fines of up to $32,000 and federal criminal penalties of up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
  • No injuries were reported in Monday's incident, but the FAA is taking the matter seriously, with the possibility of severe consequences for those found guilty of violating federal regulations.

Statistics:

  • 12,840 laser strikes reported to the FAA in the past year (Source: FAA)
  • 5,913 laser incidents reported to the FAA so far this year (Source: FAA)
  • Fines for shining a laser at an aircraft can reach up to $32,000 (Source: FAA)
  • Federal criminal penalties for shining a laser at an aircraft include up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine (Source: FAA)
  • Lasers directed at aircraft can cause temporary vision loss or incapacitation for pilots (Source: Experts)

Sources:

  • CNN: "Federal Aviation Administration investigates after laser strikes commercial aircraft" (no date mentioned)
  • LiveATC.net: Audio recording of air traffic controller warning pilots of laser strike (no date mentioned)
  • FAA: Statement to CNN regarding incidents (no date mentioned)
  • FAA: Statistics on laser strikes (no date mentioned)

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