Thats significantly higher than January, which saw an average of 36.4 per day.
Pilots in 2023 were hit with 13,304 laser strikes in the U.S., the worst year ever recorded.
There were 9,457 laser strikes reported in 2022, 9,723 in 2021, and 6,852 in 2020.
A laser strike captured on video by the FBI in 2011.Gif: FBI / YouTube (Fair Use)
Laser strikes are dangerous because they can distract pilots, sometimes even temporarily blinding them.
But its not just commercial airliners getting hit with lasers.
As you fly at night, your vision acclimates to the level of darkness that youre flying through.
The pilot needed medical treatment for his eye injury.
The FAA is committed to maintaining the safest air transportation system in the world.
Anyone witnessing a laser strike is encouraged to report the incident to the FAAthrough its website.
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