laser illumination of commercial airplanes is a growing threat to operational safety, and the number of incidents is increasing. the u.S. Federal aviation administration (Faa) laserincident database contains more than 3,200 reports of incidents since 2004 and provides information on the locations, altitudes, color of light, and phases of flight that show the most activity. by knowing how the laser affects the eye and following recommended procedures, pilots can reduce this safety threat.