FAA data reveals New York among top states for laser strikes. Search incidents near you

New York has had some of the most laser strikes this year nationwide, according to data released by the Federal Aviation Administration.

The Empire State has seen 271 laser strikes so far this year and 37 just in July, coming in at No. 8 for both July and all of 2024 so far when compared to other states.

"Aiming a laser at an aircraft is a serious safety hazard that puts everyone on the plane and on the ground below at risk," the FAA's news release says. "It is also a violation of federal law."

Here's what to know.

What are laser strikes and why are they so dangerous?

Laser strikes occur when someone points a laser at an airplane, causing sudden windscreen-filling flashes with no indication of direction in most cases, the National Business Aviation Association says.

According to the FAA , many high-powered lasers can incapacitate pilots, distracting or blinding them, and endanger the safety of everyone onboard the plane. And 2023 saw the most laser strikes ever, the FAA says, with 13,304 reported laser strikes — a 41% increase over 2022.

Those who shine lasers at aircraft can be fined up to $11,000 per violation and up to $30,000 for multiple laser incidents by the FAA. You can also face criminal penalties from federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.

A closer look at New York's 2024 laser strikes

May 2024 has seen the most laser strikes in New York so far this year with 48 reports, followed by February with 45, and June with 43. Here's how many laser strikes have taken place in New York between January and July 2024, according to the FAA:

The New York Air Route Traffic Control Center in Ronkonkoma (ZNY) located next to the Long Island MacArthur Airport has received the most reports of laser strikes so far this year with 90. The New York Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) located in Westbury (N90) follows with 64, then LaGuardia Airport in Queens with 27.

Here's how many laser strikes have taken place in New York per airport between January and July 2024, according to the FAA:

Search incidents near you

Curious about how many laser strikes have occurred near you this year? Search this database to find more information about every laser strike that's taken place in New York as of July 2024, according to the FAA:

Emily Barnes is the New York State Team consumer advocate reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @byemilybarnes . Get in touch at ebarnes@gannett.com .

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: FAA data reveals New York among top states for laser strikes. Search incidents near you