Shining a laser at an aircraft is a federal crime. New figures released by the Federal Aviation Administration say pilots in Arizona reported the fifth highest number of laser strikes in the U.S last year.
The FAA says fewer lasers are hitting pilots across the country. Laser strikes nationwide decreased by fourteen percent from 2024 to 2025.
At the same time, Arizona saw a slight increase in its own numbers, with 574 in 2025, compared to 550 the year prior.
Aiming a laser at an aircraft can incapacitate pilots and pose a public safety threat. Anyone caught doing so could be looking at major fines.
Kevin Morris is an aviation safety expert with the FAA.
“People who shine lasers at aircraft can face FAA fines up to $11,000 per violation and up to $30,800 for multiple laser incidents," he said.
The agency urges people to report laser strikes if they witness such activity.
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