Alerts Sign-up
A man was taken into custody for allegedly pointing a green laser at an aircraft near Miami International Airport, Florida. According to NBC 6 South Florida, an American Airlines pilot noticed the laser on December 25, 2024. The suspect, Francisco Teixeira, was apprehended by Miami Dade Police. Authorities reported that the 45-year-old Brazilian man aimed to disrupt Christmas Day for pilots, endangering passengers and crew.
WSVN 7 News reported that police launched an investigation at the nearby Aloft Hotel after receiving a call about the incident. An officer witnessed a green laser being directed at two aircraft in flight. Teixeira appeared before Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Gisela Cardonne Ely, who stated: "You're charged with misuse of a laser device. You cannot have in your possession any laser guns or toys."
Pointing lasers at aircraft is considered a federal crime by US aviation regulators. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) may pursue criminal and civil actions against offenders. According to the FAA, "People who shine lasers at aircraft face FAA fines of up to $11,000 per violation and up to $30,800 for multiple laser incidents." In 2021 alone, the FAA issued $120,000 in fines related to laser strikes.
