FAA Probes Green Laser Incidents Targeting Planes Near Boston Logan

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating multiple reports of a “green laser” targeting aircraft near Boston Logan International Airport on Sep. 15, Monday night. Pilots from at least three commercial flights radioed air traffic controllers to report being illuminated by the laser during departure.

“Departure, American 4580. Just got lit up by a green laser off our right. It’s still going off,” the pilot of the American Airlines regional jet, operated by Republic Airways, said in an audio recording posted by LiveATC.net. “Even after we turned, it was still strobing.” According to the FAA, Republic Airways Flight 4580, Southwest Airlines Flight 559, and United Airlines Flight 2356 all reported laser strikes while flying near Logan.

Air traffic controllers quickly issued a warning to other departing planes. “Attention all aircraft, unauthorized laser illumination event is in progress. It’s been reported about 2 miles north of Boston, at 600 feet on departure,” a controller announced in an audio clip captured by LiveATC.net.

Shining a laser at a commercial aircraft is a federal crime because it can incapacitate or temporarily blind pilots. “Positive green laser, about a couple of blocks east from the football field there,” a JetBlue pilot taking off told air traffic control. “Roger, thank you, we are sending the police out now,” the controller replied. “When it was directed toward us, I could see it in the cockpit,” the pilot later added.

The FAA confirmed no injuries were reported in Monday’s incidents. In a statement to CNN, the agency said local law enforcement has been notified and is investigating the source of the laser.

Penalties for shining a laser at an aircraft can be severe. Violators face civil fines of up to $32,000, as well as federal criminal penalties of up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine, in addition to state and local charges.

Laser strikes remain a persistent hazard for flight crews. In 2023, the FAA recorded 12,840 laser incidents involving aircraft across the United States. So far this year, 5,913 laser strikes have already been reported.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, cnn.com, LiveATC.net