PORTLAND, OR (KPTV) -
Don't point lasers at airplanes.
That's the word from Port of Portland police, who have teamed up with Crime Stoppers of Oregon.
Together, they're asking for the public's help in preventing lasers from being pointed at aircraft flying in and out of the Portland International Airport.
Since January 1, 2012, the Port of Portland Police Department has received 54 reports of laser illumination of aircraft.
In all of 2011, the department received 51 reports.
In each case this year, the laser illumination of aircraft occurred while the aircraft was on final approach to PDX.
Many of these illuminations occurred east of the airport with a significant number coming from the gateway area.
The high-intensity lasers can enter the cockpit and can cause a distraction to the pilot.
They can also create a very hazardous condition during the final critical moments of the aircraft's approach.
Laser illumination can cause permanent vision injury if viewed directly and can have lasting temporary effects on a pilot's vision for minutes after an incident, even when it is not viewed directly.
It is a violation of state and federal law to point a laser at an aircraft in flight.
Persons who illuminate aircraft while in flight are subject to arrest and prosecution.
Civil penalties of up to $11,000 per incident may also be issued against persons who point lasers at planes while in flight.
The Port of Portland police are asking for the public's help to report any unusual green laser sightings at night, when aircraft are overhead or nearby.
The public is urged to call the Port of Portland Police Dispatch Center at (503) 460-4441 if you witness a laser illumination of an aircraft, or have any information that would lead investigators to the person or persons committing this crime.
Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for information reported to Crime Stoppers that leads to an arrest in these cases, or any unsolved felony, and you can remain anonymous.
Simply call 503-823-HELP (4357) to leave tip information.
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