Record-Breaking Laser Strikes on Aircraft in Arizona Raise FAA Concerns

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reported a concerning rise in laser strikes on aircraft in Arizona, projecting that 2024 could set a new record for these dangerous incidents. In the fiscal year 2023, there were 429 reported laser strikes across the state, and in just the early months of 2024, 337 strikes have already been documented. If this trend continues, Arizona might witness up to 578 laser strikes by the year’s end, surpassing all previous records.

Pilot Tim Brennan, who has been flying helicopters for 13 years, including for the military and Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, shared his unsettling experiences with laser interference while in flight. According to Brennan, the impact of a laser strike is akin to fireworks exploding in one’s vision, posing severe risks to operational safety and often forcing pilots to divert from their paths. Brennan emphasized the critical safety risks posed by such irresponsible actions, especially when they involve pilots responsible for the lives of others on board.

The FAA has also highlighted a significant increase in similar incidents in Indiana, with over 300 laser strikes reported in 2024, primarily concentrated around Indianapolis. Globally, over 13,000 pilots have reported being targeted by laser strikes, prompting the FAA to reinforce warnings about the grave dangers of such actions, classified as felony offenses.

Authorities are urging the public to consider the severe repercussions of pointing lasers at aircraft and to report any such activities, emphasizing that laser strikes represent a serious safety hazard to everyone involved, both in the air and on the ground.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, azfamily.com