Over 13K incidents of lasers pointed at aircraft reported to FAA in 2023

(InvestigateTV) — Shining a laser at an aircraft may seem harmless to some, but it can be a serious threat in the cockpit.

This federal crime is skyrocketing. In 2023, a record 13,300 laser incidents were reported to the Federal Aviation Administration.

That is a 57% increase from five years before in 2018.

Aviation safety experts say this is a dangerous escalation that could lead to disaster.

“Fortunately, we have not lost any airplanes. But I’m afraid it’s just a matter of time until that happens,” said Cary Grant, who is an FAA Safety Team lead representative. Grant, who is a pilot himself, says there are several problems that come from being struck by a laser in mid-flight. It usually happens at night, on approach to an airport runway, and by the time the laser light hits the cockpit, the beam can be several feet wide - filling the entire cockpit with laser light.

“When you get that flash blindness, you lose the acuity of your instruments. Depending on how bright it is outside, you might lose your outside references as well,” said Grant.

Those found intentionally pointing a laser at an aircraft can face federal charges, including a fine of up to $11,000.

Reporter Morgan Loew brings us a special demonstration in hopes more people think twice before shining a light.

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