The Federal Aviation Administration reported that an Avelo Airlines aircraft, which departed from a New Hampshire airport, was targeted with a laser.
The crew of Avelo Airlines flight 1170 reported encountering a blue laser illumination at approximately 9:40 p.m. on Friday, roughly 15 miles away from Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, according to the FAA.
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Based on flight tracking information, the aircraft was en route to Concord, North Carolina. The FAA stated that no one was injured and local law enforcement agencies were informed.
"From a safety standpoint, there’s truly no adequate preparation for such an event. While we receive training on managing weather conditions and challenging situations during crucial parts of flying, nothing can get us ready to cope with losing our vision, even if it’s only brief," stated commercial pilot Tom Pasquariello.
12,840 laser strikes were reported by aviators in 2024, marking a three percent decline from 2023.
"When you send it out into the night sky, or it increases in width, it can light up a whole cockpit," said Tom Kinton, an aviation expert.
Anyone who shines a laser at an aircraft can face fines up to $11,000 per violation and can face local, state and federal criminal penalties.
The FAA said it will investigate.
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READ THE FULL STORY: An Avelo Airlines aircraft was targeted by a blue laser near Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, according to the FAA.
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