Shining a laser at an aircraft can disorient or temporarily blind pilots — and the numbers remain stubbornly high. Pilots reported 12,840 laser strikes to the FAA in 2024, a roughly 3% dip from 2023 but still near record levels. The agency says it worked this August with local, state and federal partners to push enforcement and education in the worst-hit areas.
According to the FAA, these states topped 2025 reports to date, which drove this month’s outreach focus:
Why it matters
Pointing a laser at an aircraft is a federal crime. Violators can face FAA civil penalties up to $11,000 per violation and up to $30,800 for multiple incidents — and criminal penalties up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine on top of any state or local charges.
What “enforcement month” looked like
A nationwide team of 25 FAA Law Enforcement Assistance Program (LEAP) agents coordinated with police and air traffic facilities, trained officers on rapid response, and focused on local hot spots identified in each region. The goal: faster ID of suspects and better evidence collection when pilots report a strike.
What to do if you see someone aiming a laser at an aircraft
Report it immediately to local police (and the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or tips.fbi.gov) with time, location, and any description. The FAA also accepts reports.
Don’t confront the person; let law enforcement handle it.
If you live near airports or flight paths, don’t use high-powered lasers outdoors — even “harmless” pointers can reach cockpits miles away.
Laser strikes aren’t a prank — they’re a serious aviation hazard with real legal consequences. The FAA says it’s stepping up enforcement with local partners; the public can help by reporting incidents quickly and keeping lasers out of the night sky.
Jill Schildhouse has 25 years of experience as a journalist, regularly contributing travel and cruise content to U.S. News & World Report, Reader’s Digest, AARP, The Points Guy, and more.