Phoenix Holds Unwelcome Distinction As Laser Attack Capital Of US

The state of Arizona is a great place for aviation. Lots of sunshine and VFR, a thriving Embry-Riddle campus - but the state capital also happens to lead the nation in boneheads with lasers pointing them at aircraft. Phoenix ranks first so far in 2011 with 96 reports through October 20. Philadelphia is a close second at 95, with Chicago third at 83.

Reports of lasers pointed at aircraft Reports have risen rapidly from about 300 in 2005 to 2,836 in 2010. The FAA blames a market flooded with cheap lasers, higher power levels that tempt users to "light up" aircraft at higher altitudes, and the introduction of green and blue lasers, which are more easily seen than red ones.

The agency also credits its efforts, started in 2005, to get pilots to report laser events to the nearest air traffic control facility and requiring facilities to immediately relay that information to local law enforcement agencies. In June 2011, the FAA announced it would start imposing civil penalties of up to $11,000 against people who interfere with a flight crew by pointing a laser into the cockpit of an aircraft. The agency is currently working on 18 civil penalty cases.

The FAA also provided technical expertise to help Myrtle Beach, S.C. develop a law making it illegal to point lasers at aircraft. Myrtle Beach adopted its measure in September, joining a number of other cities and states that now have laws in place making it illegal to shine lasers at aircraft.

Over the past few years, people have been charged under local, state and federal criminal statues for pointing lasers at aircraft, and legislation is pending that would make it a specific federal crime. The FAA is prepared to work with all law enforcement agencies to assist with criminal prosecutions.

FMI: www.faa.gov