FBI officials are searching for culprits behind a dangerous surge in laser strikes targeting aircraft in Washington state, with one arrest already made near Spokane International Airport.
At a Glance
- Washington state airports have experienced a dramatic increase in laser strikes, with 106 incidents reported so far in 2025
- A 45-year-old man, Rusty Flett, was arrested for allegedly conducting three laser attacks on aircraft near Spokane airport
- Laser strikes pose serious dangers to aircraft safety, potentially blinding pilots during critical landing phases
- Pointing lasers at aircraft is a federal offense punishable by up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine
- The FBI is urging the public to report suspicious laser activity to help identify perpetrators
Dangerous Spike in Aircraft Laser Incidents
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Seattle division is investigating what officials call a “dramatic increase” in dangerous laser strikes directed at aircraft approaching Seattle-Tacoma and Spokane International Airports. These incidents involve individuals on the ground aiming powerful laser pointers at cockpits during critical flight phases.
According to FBI data, Washington state has already recorded 106 laser incidents in 2025, with 43 occurring in March alone. This follows 383 similar incidents reported throughout 2024, representing a concerning trend that threatens aviation safety.
The incidents primarily involve green lasers, which are particularly hazardous to pilots. When these powerful beams strike aircraft windshields, they can cause flash blindness, intense glare, and temporary disorientation for flight crews precisely when they need perfect vision to safely land aircraft carrying hundreds of passengers.
Although no injuries have been reported from these incidents so far, authorities emphasize that the potential for catastrophic consequences remains high with each occurrence.
Since March of 2024, aircraft in the areas of Seattle-Tacoma & Spokane International Airports in Washington State have experienced a dramatic increase of laser incidents. The #FBI seeks info to identify & locate those responsible for these laser strikes:
https://t.co/cI54vfpzga pic.twitter.com/yfLDOrrVOQ— FBI Most Wanted (@FBIMostWanted) April 23, 2025
Arrest Made in Spokane Laser Attacks
Law enforcement has already made one arrest in connection with these dangerous activities. Rusty Flett, 45, was apprehended for allegedly conducting three laser attacks on aircraft near Spokane International Airport.
Authorities found Flett hiding behind a power pole after he reportedly targeted a Regional Air Support Unit helicopter with a laser pointer. He now faces potential state felony charges for unlawful laser discharge as well as possible federal charges that could bring severe penalties.
“The Federal Bureau of Investigation has been investigating a ‘dramatic increase’ in dangerous laser strikes at several Washington state airports”, authorities said.
Despite this arrest, investigators believe multiple individuals are responsible for the ongoing laser strikes, with incidents at Seattle-Tacoma and Spokane airports believed to be unrelated to each other. The FBI is collaborating with state and local agencies to identify and apprehend all perpetrators, particularly focusing on specific neighborhoods in both cities where incidents have been frequently reported.
Serious Legal Consequences for Offenders
The FBI emphasizes that pointing a laser at an aircraft is not a prank but a serious federal offense. Those convicted face up to five years in federal prison and fines up to $250,000. Law enforcement is employing sophisticated technology to catch perpetrators, including the use of helicopters equipped with infrared cameras that can trace the source of laser beams back to their origin. These enforcement efforts aim to deter future incidents through swift prosecution of offenders.
Public Assistance Crucial to Investigation
Federal authorities are calling on the public to play an active role in preventing these dangerous incidents. The FBI asks citizens to report any suspicious laser activity they observe near airports or flight paths. Additionally, parents and educators are encouraged to inform children and teenagers about the serious dangers and legal consequences of misusing laser pointers. The issue extends beyond Washington state, with the Federal Aviation Administration reporting over 13,000 laser strikes nationwide in 2023 alone.
Air traffic controllers work closely with law enforcement to respond quickly when pilots report laser strikes. This coordinated approach helps identify the general location of the source, allowing ground teams to investigate. The FBI maintains that public vigilance and reporting are essential to preventing a potential aviation disaster caused by these deliberate laser attacks on aircraft.
