Pilots reported 10,994 laser strikes to the FAA in 2025 — a 14% decrease from the year before — but still too high, say agency officials.
“Shining a laser at an aircraft poses a serious safety threat and is a federal crime,” FAA officials said.
Officials noted that the agency conducted outreach and training with local, state, and federal law enforcement throughout the year to combat laser strikes in areas with the highest numbers.
In 2025, pilots reported the highest numbers of laser strikes in these states:
- California: 1,309
- Texas: 1,100
- Florida: 654
- Illinois: 620
- Arizona: 574
- Washington: 484
- Tennessee: 431
- Indiana: 370
- New York: 369
- Virginia: 353
Pilots have reported 337 injuries since the FAA began tracking laser strike reports in 2010.
People who shine lasers at aircraft face fines of up to $11,000 per violation. They also can face federal criminal penalties of up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine, as well as state and local penalties.
The FAA’s visualization tool shows laser-strike data from 2010 to present, highlighting trends by geographic area, time of day and year.
For more information: FAA.gov
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