Don't Point Lasers at Aircraft - Even in New Jersey!

The New Jersey State Police reported more than 100 instances of people pointing lasers or other bright lights at commercial or private aircraft between December 1, 2024, and February 28, 2025. The large majority, sixty-five (65), occurred in December at the height of New Jersey’s drone hysteria.

That’s more than 100 reported federal felonies vs. zero for any aircraft operators, manned or unmanned, in New Jersey during that same time frame. Irresponsible actions by people encouraged and enabled by irresponsible and uninformed elected officials who couldn’t get in front of TV cameras fast enough while failing to inform themselves. That’s not leadership.

These were only the ones detected and reported. There were likely dozens, if not hundreds more.

Pointing a laser at any type of aircraft inflight is extremely dangerous. Here are some of the risks:

1. Pilot distraction and disorientation leading to flight crew loss of situational awareness.

2. Flight crew visual impairment, including glare, flash blindness, and after images.

3. Increased (significant!) risk of actual mishaps, especially in complex airspace with all types of aircraft operating at low altitudes.

4. Legal consequences - In the United States, it is a federal crime. Offenders can face fines of up to $250,000 and up to five years in prison.

Click this link to the FAA’s website to learn more: Laser Safety | Federal Aviation Administration