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Local pilots targeted in laser attack

Passengers on two flights coming into Houston had no idea their pilots were being blinded by someone on the ground.

Marcelino Benito, KHOU 11 News 11:13 p.m. CST February 16, 2015
"I'm annoyed by it as a pilot," said Turner. "You're trying to concentrate and you jump, the whole aircraft jumps with you."

HOUSTON - Passengers on two flights coming into Houston had no idea their pilots were being blinded by someone on the ground.

As Southwest Airlines Flight 2405 approached Hobby Airport Sunday evening, a green laser shined through the right side of the cockpit. The flight was just 1,000 feet from the ground, but it managed to land safely.

But pilot Michael Turner says one day a flight won't.

"They're putting 150 to 200 people in danger," said Turner.

Turner is Assistant Chief Pilot at American Jet International. He's been lased more than 10 times over Houston skies.

The lasers cause glare in the cockpit and can temporary blind pilots as they land.

"It can cause catastrophic effects," said Turner.

Southwest Flight 2405 was one of three flights that reported laser strikes at Hobby Sunday evening. HPD, the FBI and FAA are all now investigating. This all comes one year after officials announced a $10,000 reward for tips leading to arrests.

"You may think this is a joke, but it's serious business," said Turner. "People get hurt. We don't want a catastrophic event to happen because someone's playing a joke."

Atlantic Southeast Flight 4531 also reported a laser strike Sunday night as it came into land at Bush Airport.

Police say they're having a hard time pin-pointing where those strikes came from, so tips from the public are very important.