Key Facts
• On September 15, green lasers targeted aircraft near Boston Logan Airport.
• FAA is investigating reports from multiple pilots, including American Airlines Flight 4580.
• Pilots reported lasers flashing from the right side and persisting after turns.
• Affected flights include Republic Airlines 4580, Southwest Airlines 559, and United Airlines 2356.
• Air traffic controllers warned of unauthorized laser activity 3.2 km north of the airport.
• Laser strikes on aircraft are a federal crime, risking pilot vision and safety.
• No injuries were reported in the September 15 incidents, per FAA.
• Offenders face fines up to $32,000 and federal penalties of up to 5 years in prison.
• FAA recorded 12,840 laser incidents in 2024; 5,913 cases reported so far in 2025.
Summary
On September 15, multiple pilots reported green laser strikes near Boston Logan International Airport, prompting an investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Affected flights included Republic Airlines 4580, Southwest Airlines 559, and United Airlines 2356. Pilots described lasers flashing persistently, posing risks to safety and vision. Air traffic controllers issued warnings about unauthorized laser activity 3.2 km north of the airport. While no injuries were reported, laser strikes on aircraft are a federal crime, punishable by fines up to $32,000 and imprisonment of up to 5 years. The FAA noted a significant number of laser incidents, with 12,840 cases in 2024 and 5,913 reported so far in 2025.
