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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 urging laser manufacturers to add prominent warning labels on their products about the dangers and federal illegality of pointing lasers at aircraft, as these actions endanger pilots and passengers.
  • Laser strikes are a serious threat, causing thousands of incidents annually (9,500 in 2022) and leading to pilot injuries, especially during critical flight phases like takeoff and landing.
  • Pointing a laser at an aircraft is a federal crime, with perpetrators facing substantial FAA fines (up to $11,000 per violation) and potential criminal prosecution; the FAA encourages reporting by pilots, aircrew, and the public.
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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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