The hazard posed by laser attacks against civil aircraft, specifically the deliberate targeting of flight crew with laser illumination to disrupt the safe operation of the aircraft, is a matter of increasing worldwide concern. Available data indicate that the frequency of laser attacks on civil aircraft continues to rise significantly. These strikes can result in distraction, disruption, disorientation and, in extreme cases, blindness and incapacitation.
Related Publications

February 23, 2026
Harmonized Implementation of the ICAO “4 Levels of Threat” System for Managing Unruly Passenger Events
Unruly passenger events continue to increase worldwide, posing risks to flight safety and security. ICAO’s “4 Levels of Threat” system

October 12, 2023
Flights Into and Over Conflict Zones
Recent events have shown once again that the status of conflict zones around the world can change suddenly, exposing civil

March 13, 2023
Unruly Passengers
IFALPA notes the increasing number and severity of incidents involving unruly passengers on board aircraft worldwide. Despite the complexity of

October 4, 2021
Loss of Communication with ATC
The tragic events of 11 September 2001 have drastically changed the way in-flight security incidents are managed. National Security Agencies

December 16, 2019
Onboard Protection Against Fire and Smoke
IFALPA believes that the results from the industry initiative on smoke and fire following the Swissair 111 accident should become

December 5, 2018
Secondary Barriers
There are times when operational necessity requires that the flight deck door be opened in flight. This represents a vulnerability