Laser Focused

 Unbeknownst to us at the time, 2023 would become the peak of reported incidents to date, reaching 13,304 by year-end, which was another roughly 41% year-over-year increase and more than double the reported number in 2019 (6,136). 

Screenshot via FAA.gov

The general risks posed by laser strikes are fairly obvious. Lasers can visually incapacitate pilots, creating an immediate in-flight emergency and risking damaged eyesight. 

However, the time at which an incident occurs can exacerbate its effects. The majority of laser strikes on aircraft occur in high-workload environments, per NBAA:

• At night—between 7 and 11 PM (when your eyes are more susceptible to damage from lasers)
• During critical phases of flight—between 2,000 and 10,000 feet.

The FAA continues to work with law enforcement at all levels to ratchet up penalties against individuals who intentionally aim lasers at aircraft, which can include criminal penalties of up to $250,000 and five years in prison, plus civil penalties of up to $11,000 per violation. The FAA has imposed civil penalties of up to $30,800 against individuals for multiple incidents. 

The FBI is even starting to offer rewards to help catch offenders where repeated incidents have occurred. Currently, the bureau is offering up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrests of individuals responsible for multiple laser strike incidents in Washington state.

The frequency of reported incidents this year, 3,707 through May 9, suggests these measures may be helping reduce instances of laser strikes. However, historically, the number of reported incidents increases in the second half of the year, spiking around Independence Day and throughout the holiday season.

If you’re the target of a laser strike, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of a safe outcome. 

• Stay calm. If the airplane is on a stable path, it should remain that way.
• Pass the controls to the SIC if you're flying with a partner.
• Alert ATC of the incident.
• Go around or missed (if relevant).
• Use your visor to block the laser. 
• Slowly raise your lights to drone it out.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes.

TLDR: Avoid looking outside in the vicinity of the laser, and aviate, navigate, and communicate.

Once on the ground, report the incident to the FAA. A few minutes of your time can help the agency gather data and work with law enforcement to identify offenders. When it comes to laser strikes, snitches get riches and help improve the safety of the NAS.