Pilots Report Numerous Laser Strike Incidents in Boston

According to the FAA, pilots have reported more than 7,400 laser hazard incidents so far this year.

Monday, September 25, 2023 at 04:36 PM ET

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After a record number of laser strikes in 2021, the GAO is calling on the FAA to improve its efforts to curb the impact on pilots. [Courtesy: NBAA]

Key Takeaways:

Boston area authorities are investigating three recent green laser strikes on aircraft, including two JetBlue flights and a Coast Guard helicopter, none of which resulted in injuries.
Laser strikes are a dangerous national issue, with over 7,400 incidents reported this year, posing a serious threat by incapacitating pilots, particularly during critical landing phases.
Pointing a laser at an aircraft is a federal crime, carrying FAA fines of up to $11,000 per violation and up to $30,800 for multiple incidents.

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Law enforcement and aviation officials in the Boston area are trying to figure out who is using lasers to target aircraft. Last week there were three incidents of laser strikes from the ground.

The first two occurred in the predawn hours Thursday and involved two JetBlue aircraft. Both were reportedly struck by green lasers while on approach to land at Logan International Airport (KBOS).