You already know that shining lasers into airplane cockpits is a bad idea. Now the Federal Aviation Administration wants your help investigating laser incidents with a new Web site.
The site offers ways for pilots, air traffic controllers and members of the public to submit reports about laser incidents. It also provides detailed information about what is becoming a widespread problem.
According to the FAA, laser incidents have increased ten-fold over the last five years. In 2005, 283 reports were filed. By the end of 2010, that figure had risen to nearly 3,000.
Shining lasers into cockpits can have blinding effects on aircraft pilots. The offense carries a 20-year maximum jail sentence, a $250,000 fine and an $11,000 civil penalty from the FAA.
Last April, authorities arrested 24-year-old Justin Stouder minutes after he painted a police helicopter with a green laser pointer. The FBI later released video of the arrest. Watch:
