Laser Lights Aimed at Aircraft Surged to Record High in 2023

January 31st, 10:00 PM EST

By NEWSnet Digital Team

Pilot flying a plane with a laser pointed in his direction, file image

MGN via FAA

WASHINGTON (NEWSnet/AP) — Laser strikes aimed at aircraft, including commercial planes, surged 41% last year and reached a record high, according to federal officials.

The Federal Aviation Administration said Wednesday that it received 13,304 reports from pilots about laser strikes last year, going well past a record set in 2021.

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“Aiming a laser at an aircraft is a serious safety hazard that puts everyone on the plane and on the ground at risk,” FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker said in a video posted by the agency.

These incidents have resulted in 313 injuries since the agency started keeping records in 2010.

Authorities blame the surge in attacks on factors including the widespread sale of inexpensive lasers in stores and online, stronger devices that can hit planes at higher altitudes, and the increased awareness among pilots to report incidents.

Laser strikes at aircraft are most common during in the first few hours after midnight, according to FAA data.

The FAA said it can fine violators $11,000 for each violation, up to $30,800, and federal, state and local law enforcement agencies can file criminal charges.

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