Air Interdiction Agents with Air and Marine Operations (AMO) have encountered six incidents of laser strikes on their aircraft over the past four months, forcing crews to take evasive action while conducting border security missions. The incidents, which remain under investigation, have occurred in different locations across the country, including Texas and Florida.
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The most recent case took place on February 9, approximately 13 miles west of McAllen International Airport. An AS-350 helicopter on patrol was hit by a laser three times, with the beam originating from a vehicle on the Mexican riverbank. Another notable incident on January 9 involved a similar aircraft in Jacksonville, Florida. That case led to the arrest of one individual who now faces felony state charges for aiming a laser at an aircraft.
No injuries have been reported among pilots or crew members. However, officials warn that laser beams, even from small handheld devices, can temporarily blind aircrew, creating a serious risk of midair collisions or other dangerous incidents.
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Air and Marine Operations, along with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, remind the public that while handheld lasers are not illegal to own, pointing them at aircraft is a federal crime. Convictions for interference with an aircraft can result in up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $250,000.
Article by multiple RFHC contributors.
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