information from the City of SeaTac

Over the last two weeks, there have been at least 45 laser strikes against planes near the Sea-Tac airport. 

The most recent laser strike was Thursday night, with another 12 Tuesday night. Almost all the flights hit by lasers earlier this week were in a 3-mile radius of the airport. 

The FAA reported a 41 percent increase in laser strikes from 2020 to 2021, with Washington ranking eighth for highest number of incidents per capita.

Pointing a laser at an aircraft is dangerous and illegal, resulting in an $11,000 fine per incident. Laser strikes can blind and disorient pilots, which is a serious safety issue.

The FAA has a campaign to raise awareness about the danger of laser strikes, which can temporarily blind a pilot. People are encouraged to report these incidences. 

The Port of Seattle is asking the public to call 911 if they see anyone pointing lasers at planes.