Office of Special Investigations Takes Action to Safeguard Aircraft from Laser Threats

USAF F-35, F-22, F-16, F-15 formation

The Office of Special Investigations (OSI) is stepping up efforts to protect Department of the Air Force aircraft from an increasing number of incidents involving laser pointers, which pose significant dangers, especially during nighttime operations.

Laser pointers, typically seen as harmless tools for presentations or amusing pets, can disrupt flight operations and pose challenges for pilots. OSI officials emphasize that pointing a laser at an aircraft is not only dangerous but also a felony.

To combat this threat, real-time reporting and swift responses from all agencies and law enforcement, both domestically and internationally, are essential strategies. Individuals caught engaging in laser incidents may face fines of up to $250,000 and imprisonment for up to five years. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) can also impose civil penalties, with fines ranging from $11,000 per violation to $30,800 for multiple incidents.

Efficient communication between pilots, command posts, OSI, and local law enforcement is critical for rapid responses to incidents. One significant challenge is pinpointing the precise location from which the laser originated, as this information is crucial for taking action.

The impact of a laser beam on pilots can be compared to a camera flash in a pitch-black car at night, causing sudden disorientation and temporary blindness. During critical flight phases, this poses a significant risk, potentially leading to accidents and endangering lives on the ground.

OSI Center officials stress that misusing lasers is not a harmless prank and can result in permanent visual impairment, severely affecting an individual’s ability to see and function. According to the FAA, laser incidents targeting aircraft in the United States have seen a 41% increase in 2021 compared to the previous year, with a total of 244 reported injuries since 2010. The alarming rise is underscored by nearly 9,500 laser strikes reported to the FAA in 2022.

OSI encourages the public to be aware of this threat and report any laser incidents promptly. Witnesses are encouraged to provide details such as the individual involved, location, and event to both local law enforcement and OSI, regardless of whether the aircraft is military or civilian. If you witness someone directing a laser at an aircraft, you can report the incident to laserreports@faa.gov or contact OSI for further assistance.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, msn.com, af.mil