Three separate flight crews reported being illuminated by a green laser near Boston Logan International Airport on Monday evening, September 15. The incidents involved commercial aircraft inbound and outbound from the major East Coast hub, prompting warnings to other pilots and an immediate investigation by federal authorities.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed these reports, emphasizing the serious safety risk that laser strikes pose to aviation. No injuries were reported in these specific incidents, but the agency has launched a full investigation into the matter.
Key Takeaways
- Three flight crews reported green laser strikes near Boston Logan Airport on September 15.
- Affected flights included United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Republic Airways.
- Pointing a laser at an aircraft is a federal crime, carrying fines up to $32,646.
- The FAA is investigating the incidents and reminds the public about responsible laser use.
- Over 12,000 laser incidents were reported to the FAA in 2024.
Multiple Aircraft Affected by Laser Strikes
The reported laser incidents occurred on Monday evening, September 15. The FAA stated that crews from United Airlines flight 2356, traveling from San Francisco, Southwest Airlines flight 559, heading to Nashville, and Republic Airways flight 4580, bound for New York City, all encountered the green laser.
These flights were operating in the vicinity of Boston Logan International Airport when the illumination events took place. The pilots quickly reported the occurrences to air traffic control, as is standard procedure for such safety threats.
"Departure, American 4580. Just got lit up by a green laser off our right. It's still going off," a Republic Airways pilot, operating an American Airlines flight, informed air traffic control. "Even after we turned, it was still strobing."
This audio recording, captured by LiveATC.net and reported by CNN, highlights the persistent nature of the laser's beam. The pilot's statement indicates that the laser continued to target the aircraft even as it maneuvered.
Fact: Laser Pointers Are Not Toys
The FAA states that while laser pointers may seem like harmless tools or toys, they become a serious threat when aimed at aircraft. A laser can temporarily incapacitate pilots, creating a dangerous situation for everyone on board.
Air Traffic Control Issues Warning
Following the pilots' reports, air traffic controllers took immediate action to alert other aircraft in the area. This swift response is crucial for pilot awareness and safety.
An air traffic controller broadcast a warning to nearby planes, detailing the location and altitude of the reported laser activity. "Attention all aircraft, unauthorized laser illumination event is in progress. It's been reported about two miles north of Boston, at 600 feet on departure," the controller announced.
This warning helps other pilots maintain vigilance and take evasive action if necessary. Despite the distraction and potential danger, the FAA confirmed that no injuries were reported among the flight crews or passengers in these incidents.
Federal Investigation Underway
The Federal Aviation Administration has initiated an investigation into the Boston laser incidents. Such investigations aim to identify the source of the laser strikes and bring those responsible to justice. Law enforcement agencies often collaborate with the FAA in these cases.
Pointing a laser at an aircraft is a federal crime in the United States. Violators can face severe penalties, including both criminal charges and significant civil fines from the FAA. The maximum FAA fine for a single incident can reach up to $32,646.
Background on Laser Incidents
Laser strikes against aircraft are a persistent problem in aviation. The FAA actively tracks these events and works to educate the public on the dangers and legal consequences.
The number of reported laser incidents has fluctuated in recent years:
- In 2024, pilots reported 12,840 laser strikes to the FAA.
- This was slightly lower than the 13,304 incidents recorded in 2023.
- So far in 2025, the agency has already documented 5,913 laser events.
This data indicates a daily average of approximately 27.9 laser incidents across the country in 2025.
Impact on Pilot Safety and Operations
Laser strikes can have a profound impact on pilot safety and aircraft operations. When a bright laser beam enters the cockpit, it can temporarily blind or disorient pilots. This effect is known as flash blindness or glare.
During critical phases of flight, such as takeoff and landing, pilot visibility is paramount. Any impairment to a pilot's vision can compromise flight safety and potentially lead to serious accidents. The FAA continuously warns about these dangers.
FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker addressed the issue in a video message in January 2024. "Bottomline, lasers and aircraft don't mix," Whitaker stated. "If you have a laser, please use it responsibly."
Previous Incidents and Reporting
This is not an isolated issue. Earlier in 2025, a similar green laser incident occurred involving a military helicopter in Fargo, North Dakota. On April 17, a Sikorsky UH-60 helicopter was targeted about two miles from Hector International Airport around 9 p.m. local time.
No injuries were reported in that incident, and the FAA also launched an investigation. These repeated events underscore the ongoing challenge of preventing laser strikes.
The FAA encourages anyone who witnesses a laser strike to report it. Reports can be made directly on the FAA's website or by contacting local law enforcement authorities. Public assistance is vital in identifying perpetrators and deterring future incidents.
The agency's consistent message is clear: using lasers improperly can have severe consequences for aviation safety and for those who shine them at aircraft.
