FBI Offers $10K Reward for Arrest of Those Responsible for 100s of Laser Strikes on Aircraft in Washington
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of those responsible for hundreds of laser strikes on aircraft in Washington state since March of last year.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), there have been 438 reports of laser strikes since March, a “dramatic increase” in incidents. These laser strikes have illuminated the cockpits of planes flying through SeaTac Airport (SEA) and Spokane International Airport.
Neighborhoods in Seattle with reported incidents include SeaTac, Vashon, White Center, Burien, West Kent, Lake Meridian Park, East Hill, and Des Moines, according to the FBI. In Spokane, incidents have been reported in the West Plains, Nine Mile Falls, Green Bluff, and Hillyard.
The FBI stated that multiple individuals are believed to be behind the laser strikes, but they do not believe the incidents in Seattle and Spokane are connected.
The FBI is asking the public to call 1-800-225-5324 or submit a tip online to be eligible for a reward.
Aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft is a federal offense. Conviction could result in up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
In 2023, Washington state reported 43 laser strike incidents, according to FAA data. That number surged in 2024, with 383 incidents. Since the beginning of 2025, there have already been 106 reported incidents.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, king5.com