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FBI Goes After Laser Attacks on Aircraft

Two airports in Washington state are being targeted with new rewards.

Cockpit laser strike
You’re most likely to be affected by laser strikes at low altitudes, in critical phases of flight, and at night. [File Photo Courtesy: NBAA]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The FBI is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to arrests in connection with a marked increase in laser strikes on aircraft in Washington state, specifically near Seattle-Tacoma and Spokane airports.
  • Pilots reported 107 laser incidents in Washington state between January and March, which pose a serious danger by blinding pilots and compromising aircraft landings.
  • Targeting aircraft with lasers is a federal felony, carrying penalties of up to $250,000 in fines and five years in prison, in addition to significant fines from the FAA.
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The FBI is offering up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of people involved in laser incidents on aircraft in Washington state. 

According to the agency, pilots on approach to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (KSEA) and Spokane International Airport (KGEG) have reported a marked increase in the number of laser incidents.

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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