SPOKANE, WA – The FBI is investigating a significant increase in laser incidents involving commercial aircraft approaching Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and Spokane International Airport (GEG) since March 2024.
According to a press release from the FBI, pilots have reported laser beams illuminating and tracking their cockpits, primarily during landing approaches. In Spokane, incidents have been reported in the West Plains, Nine Mile Falls, Green Bluff, and Hillyard neighborhoods. In the Seattle area, affected neighborhoods include SeaTac, Vashon, White Center, Burien, West Kent, Lake Meridian Park, East Hill, and Des Moines.
The FBI stated that multiple individuals are believed to be involved in the incidents. However, authorities do not believe the events in Spokane and Seattle are connected.
Local and federal agencies have been collaborating to identify and locate those responsible. The FBI emphasized that directing a laser at an aircraft is a federal offense, punishable by up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The agency is asking anyone with information related to the incidents to contact the FBI by phone at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), through their local FBI office, the nearest American Embassy or Consulate, or online at tips.fbi.gov.
