San Antonio Pilots Increasingly Targeted by Risky Laser Strikes
San Antonio-area pilots are facing a growing threat from individuals aiming lasers at aircraft, jeopardizing critical missions and perhaps endangering lives. both law enforcement and air ambulance pilots report a significant increase in these incidents, which can disrupt operations and cause temporary vision impairment.
San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) “Eagle” helicopter pilot Hernandez described a recent experience where a blue laser illuminated the entire cockpit due to light refraction off the helicopter’s windows. “It takes our focus away from that important job,” Hernandez stated, highlighting the disruption to missions like responding to shootings, robberies, and searches for missing children. Hernandez reported being lasered approximately eight times in a two-month period.
The danger extends beyond law enforcement aircraft. air Methods helicopter air ambulance pilot Mike Biasatti, with over two decades of experience, emphasized the risk to patients and crew during critical medical transports. “Obviously, if the patient’s on board, the crew’s on board, you know the outcome could be catastrophic,” he said. He estimates hearing reports of laser strikes at least once every other shift.
Data confirms this increase in incidents statewide, encompassing helicopters, small planes, and commercial airliners. Authorities believe many strikes go unreported. Pilots describe the laser beams as deceptively bright, and underestimate the potential harm.
A recent case on November 3, 2023, illustrates the severity of the issue. An SAPD helicopter assisting with a shooting call was repeatedly struck by an intense green laser for five to ten minutes while flying near Kelly Field. The pilot experienced temporary flash blindness and was forced to maneuver the helicopter to avoid the beam. Sandra Roberson was identified as the source of the laser and admitted to shining it, initially believing she was targeting a drone. She apologized after learning she had targeted a police helicopter.
Pointing a laser at an aircraft is a federal crime. Violators face potential local and federal charges, including fines of up to $32,646 per incident and up to five years in federal prison. Last year, a Texas woman received a three-year federal prison sentence for a similar offense.
Biasatti suggests potential solutions, such as restricting laser device sales or implementing a tax to fund public education about the dangers. Law enforcement confirms thay are actively investigating and prosecuting these incidents, regardless of intent.
