Lasers put pilots, passengers at risk
December 13, 2010, 03:28 pm
It may seem like a simple joke to some, but an increase in lasers being aimed into airplane cockpits is causing concern.
A light shinning into a pilot's eye can force him or her to turn away instead of focusing on landing, putting both the pilot and passengers at risk.
The FAA reportedly received 12 reports of laser use at multiple New Jersey airports at the end of November alone. The problem has been reported at facilities nationwide.
There have been 2,200 cases reported this year, compared to just 283 in 2005, according to CNN.
FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt wrote on the Department of Transportation blog just how much of a problem lasers can be.
"It sounds silly, but this is a serious problem. Why is this dangerous? Lasers can distract pilots or temporarily blind a pilot while he or she is taking off or landing an aircraft," Babbitt wrote.
Given that new dangers are always emerging, life insurance for pilots is something that should be considered. In the event of an accident caused by a laser or other incident, the coverage can provide financial support should an injury occur.
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