Georgia Ranks 10th in U.S. for Laser Strikes Against Pilots, FAA Warns

Georgia has been ranked among the top states in the nation for dangerous laser strikes targeting aircraft, according to new data released by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The agency placed Georgia 10th in the U.S. for the number of reported laser incidents against pilots, underscoring a growing safety concern in the skies.

Laser Strikes a Growing Threat

The FAA reported that pilots in Georgia have already filed 166 laser strike reports so far in 2025, with more than 400 cases documented in 2024. Aviation officials warn that even what some people view as a harmless prank can have serious, potentially catastrophic consequences for pilots and passengers alike.

Metro Atlanta pilots say the problem is particularly acute given the region’s heavy air traffic. “Especially in Atlanta, where we have the busiest airport in the world, it’s extremely dangerous,” said flight instructor Avery Shuhar of DeKalb Peachtree Airport.

Shuhar explained that shining a laser at an aircraft can temporarily blind a pilot or obstruct their ability to read critical cockpit instruments. “It’s like when sunlight hits your phone screen and you can’t see it anymore. The same thing happens to pilots, except at 5,000 feet with hundreds of lives at stake,” she said.

Pilots Share Firsthand Experiences

Local pilot Chirag Rao recalled being struck by a laser during a flight. “It has happened to me once, and it’s frightening,” he said. “You have to remember, this isn’t just about the pilots—it’s about the passengers too. You’re putting an entire plane at risk.”

The FAA classifies laser strikes as a federal crime, punishable by fines and potential jail time. Authorities say motivations vary from intentional acts to reckless misuse of handheld laser devices.

Law Enforcement Response

When pilots report a laser strike, air traffic controllers immediately notify local police. Officers then attempt to track down suspects on the ground. While many cases are traced back to individuals unaware of the risks, others are deemed deliberate.

FAA officials and flight instructors alike stress the importance of education. “If you’re going to use a laser, point it at the ground, not at the sky—and never at anyone’s eyes,” Shuhar emphasized.

Aviation Safety Priority

With hundreds of incidents each year in Georgia alone, laser strikes remain a serious safety issue nationwide. The FAA continues to urge the public to understand the risks, reminding everyone that even a split-second distraction in the cockpit can cause devastating consequences in the air.


Related News: https://airguide.info/?s=laser, https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/travel-health-security/

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