Laser-pointing dangers to all pilots

PENSACOLA, Fla. - Naval Air Station Pensacola, Fla., has seen an uptick in incidents involving laser pointers being aimed at its aircraft, and has issued a warning to the public of the danger to pilots and legal ramifications. "Pointing lasers at aircraft cannot only temporarily blind pilots, but cause permanent damage as well,” according to an NASP media release. “The canopy Plexiglas magnifies the intensity of the laser, which can compromise the vision of pilots and even require medical treatments," the Navy said. Additionally, pointing a laser at an aircraft can bring a fine of up to $250,000 and five years in prison. (Source: Pensacola News Journal 05/03/18) Air Force and Navy pilots also fly throughout the region from NAS Meridian and Columbus AFB in Mississippi; and NAS/JRB New Orleans; Eglin and Tyndall AFBs in Florida.