As of October 2021, the FAA has recorded 7,186 reports of aircraft laser strikes, underscoring an alarming trend despite repeated warnings from aviation authorities. The practice of aiming high-powered lasers at airplanes continues to rise, presenting serious risks to both crew and passengers.
Despite prior alerts by the FAA about the dangers involved, recent reports indicate a noticeable spike in incidents. In response, the agency issued another public safety warning this past Monday.
Just three weeks after its last warning, the FAA noted a surge in pilot complaints regarding aircraft laser strikes. The updated tally rose from 6,723 reports on October 8th to 7,186, revealing a significant increase in just a few weeks.
This surge is part of a troubling long-term pattern. FAA data visualization tools show laser attacks have risen by 148% over the last ten years. Reports typically increase during the week and reach their highest levels on Fridays and Saturdays.
Pointing a laser at a plane is a federal offense. The FAA may fine individuals up to $11,000 for a single violation, and as much as $30,800 for repeat offenders.
FAA Regional Administrator Micheal O’Hara emphasized the potential consequences, stating, “When a laser comes into the cockpit, it can brightly illuminate. It takes the pilot’s focus off the instruments, presenting hazards to the passengers on board and on the ground.”
O’Hara highlighted the danger using Jacksonville data as an example: “When I looked at the Jacksonville data over the last two years, 20 of the 42 incidents occurred below 3,000 feet. That’s obviously a critical phase of flight when the pilot should be focused on their departure route or landing pattern at the airports.”
The FAA has identified California, Texas, and Florida as the states with the highest number of reported laser incidents.
Officials remain uncertain about the root cause of the increase, but O’Hara believes the rising availability of high-powered outdoor laser devices could be contributing to the problem.
Fortunately, passengers concerned about air travel should know that crashes due to laser strikes are extremely rare. While alarming, these incidents rarely result in accidents thanks to aviation safety protocols.
Photo Credit: Mediengestalter