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FAA Wants Laser Makers’ Help in Combating Aircraft Laser Strikes

The agency wants manufacturers to include a warning label to remind users that pointing a laser at an aircraft is a federal crime.

The FAA wants manufacturers to include a warning label to remind users that pointing a laser at an aircraft is a federal crime. [Credit: Shutterstock]
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Key Takeaways:

  • The FAA is requesting laser manufacturers add prominent warning labels to packaging, informing consumers that pointing lasers at aircraft is a federal crime that endangers pilots and passengers.
  • Laser strikes remain a significant safety concern, with nearly 9,500 reported in 2022 and 278 pilot injuries since 2010, predominantly occurring during takeoff/landing phases at lower altitudes.
  • Violators caught shining lasers at aircraft face severe penalties, including federal fines up to $11,000 per incident and potential criminal prosecution, with the FAA encouraging pilots and witnesses to report such incidents.
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“Do not shine at aircraft.” The next time you buy a laser, don’t be surprised if these words appear on it, as the FAA is requesting laser manufacturers and distributors add this warning on a label to prevent laser strikes. 

“Lasers may seem like just a toy, office tool, or game for most, but they can incapacitate pilots putting thousands of passengers at risk every year. People need to be aware that pointing a laser at an airplane is a federal crime,” says Acting FAA Administrator Billy Nolen.

Meg Godlewski

Meg Godlewski has been an aviation journalist for more than 24 years and a CFI for more than 20 years. If she is not flying or teaching aviation, she is writing about it. Meg is a founding member of the Pilot Proficiency Center at EAA AirVenture and excels at the application of simulation technology to flatten the learning curve. Follow Meg on Twitter @2Lewski.

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