INDIANAPOLIS — Aiming a laser at an aircraft is a serious safety hazard that puts everyone on the plane and on the ground below at risk, but attacks still happen every day.
In just the seven months of 2024, 317 attacks were reported in Indiana and almost 7,000 across the country. In 2023, the FAA says pilots across the country reported over 13,000 laser strikes, with Indiana having a consistent high rate of them.
Pointing a laser at at an aircraft is a federal crime.
The FAA works closely with federal, state and local law enforcement to pursue civil and criminal charges against those who purposely aim lasers at aircraft. In the most common cases, violators receive up to $11,000 fines per attack, but the FAA says it has imposed civil penalties of up to $30,800 against people for several incidents.
The agency strongly encourages the public to help spread the word on dangerous laser strikes in hopes of creating a safer travel for pilots and passengers alike.