The Air Line Pilots Association, the largest pilots union in the United States, recently stepped up the campaign against individuals intentionally pointing lasers at airliners by calling on lawmakers, regulators and industry officials to take action against the culprits. The Wall Street Journal reported on the matter on January 26, 2011, and explained the union’s proposal includes calls for public awareness campaigns, the expansion of “laser-free zones” and new air-traffic control safeguards and pilot procedures to help minimize the threats.
When pointed into an aircraft, lasers can temporarily blind and/or incapacitate pilots, resulting in added danger for the pilots, passengers and individuals nearby. The call for action was issued by Lee Moak, the union leader on Tuesday January 25, 2011. This move is the first major public-safety drive to be issued under Moak, who was recently elected union president.
Moak, who is also a Delta Air Lines pilot, stated, “A threat this serious requires decisive action from every legislative and regulatory angle, but we also need the public to get engaged.”
While no injuries have been reported in relation to lasers being pointed into the cockpits of aircrafts, pilots have reported instances of lasers lighting up cockpits and making visibility difficult.
The Federal Aviation Administration stated in its annual report on the week of January 17, 2011 that potentially blinding laser incidents involving all types of planes across the U.S. almost doubled to 2,800 in 2010 from the previous year.
In 2010, Los Angeles International Airport and the airspace surrounding the area had the highest number of incidents involving lasers, with 102 reported events. O’Hare International Airport in Chicago had the second highest number of reports.
While no injuries have been reported as of yet, the threat still exists.
Aviation accidents can be overwhelming and traumatic for the victims and their families and many are at a loss as to what steps to take or where to turn for help after the crash. A New York City aviation accident attorney can help victims and loved ones begin the healing process by helping them to understand their rights, navigate the complex legal process and work to gain compensation for their injuries caused by the tragic accident. It is important to contact a veteran airline accident lawyer that is familiar with the complex technical and legal issues associated with these types of cases to represent you in court.
Reported by New York City aviation accident attorney Jonathan C. Reiter, a New York personal injury lawyer experienced in representing victims of airline accidents.
Phone: (888)-464-1952
