12 On Your Side Investigates: The danger in the skies
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - The FAA releases new numbers on how many laser strikes pilots reported to the agency last year, just before the world begins to descend on Augusta.
This new data comes at a time when flight anxiety is high following several major airline crashes.
Laser strikes are a big safety issue for both pilots and engers. 12 On Your Side investigates the danger in the skies.
The numbers are shocking for Georgia. We rank number nine in the nation for the most laser strikes on aircraft last year, and for the first two months of this year, pilots flying over Georgia reported 68 strikes.
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Pilot: “Hey, SAC, Air 21.”
Air Traffic Control: “Air 21, go ahead.”
Pilot: Right now, we are getting hit pretty good with a green laser.
Laser strikes on aircraft have increased dramatically in recent years.
The number of strikes nationwide that pilots have reported to the FAA has jumped nearly 90% over the last four years from 6,852 in 2020 to 12,840 in 2024.
Pilot: “SAC looks like one party standing in his driveway could be responsible. There is a basketball court.”
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Georgia is ninth in the nation for the most reported laser strikes last year.
So far this year, 68 cases across the state. Eleven of which pilots reported out of Augusta.
Air Traffic Control: “Air 21 copy. You are getting hit with a green laser.”
Laser strikes may blind pilots, putting crews and engers in danger. The data links laser strikes to 150 injuries over the last four years.
“A laser strike can temporarily blind a pilot or cause a severe injury, and the FAA takes this threat very seriously,” said Kevin Morris, FAA public affairs specialist.
Pilot: “That was the unit that just went by. I think the guy just ducked behind the truck.”
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Which is why the FAA is now using the video of a real-life strike to warn people to lose the laser.
Pilot: “Did someone find something?”
Air Traffic Control: “He has a laser, and we have one in custody.”
Pilot: “Right on. You guys are awesome, thank you.”
People who shine lasers at aircraft face FAA fines up to $11,000 per violation. They can also face federal penalties, including up to five years in prison and $250,000 in fines.
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