Authorities investigate laser strike on United Airlines flight over Teaneck
Shining a laser at an aircraft is a federal crime, the FAA says.
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Authorities have launched an investigation after a laser struck a United Airlines flight late Wednesday evening over Teaneck.
A Federal Aviation Administration spokesperson told News 12 the crew of United Airlines Flight 921 reported being illuminated by a green laser at about 11:25 p.m. The incident took place over the Teaneck area, about 14 miles from Newark Liberty International Airport.
According to the FAA, the flight landed safely, and local police are investigating.
The FAA says shining a laser at an aircraft is a federal crime. The lasers can incapacitate pilots flying planes that are often carrying hundreds of passengers. Offenders who are caught shining lasers at aircraft can face FAA fines up to $11,000 per violation, along with federal criminal penalties including prison time and fines up to $250,000.
“FAA air traffic control facilities quickly relay pilot laser-strike reports to the appropriate local law enforcement agency, which is in the best position to immediately investigate,” the FAA said in a statement.
Last year, pilots reported 10,993 laser strikes to the FAA. While that number represents a 14% reduction, the FAA says “the numbers are still too high.”
