When we see a large vehicle, like a semi-truck, train, or airplane, most of us love to try to get the operator's attention, usually by waving at them in the hopes that they'll wave or toot-toot back.
But it seems there are some people with more sinister intentions around these large machines, especially airplanes.
One common offense is what is called "lasering," in which the person will point an abnormally large and powerful "laser pointer" at the front windshield of the airplane, lighting up the whole viewing area, and blinding the pilot.
But the unfortunate truth is that this can literally blind the pilot, thus putting everyone on the aircraft in danger and potentially ending that flyer's career.
And there are glaring consequences for the person pointing the laser beam.
Pilot Sabrina Johnson, or @sabrinaleej on TikTok, explained that lasering airplanes was not only a rising issue, but the consequences for doing this are escalating.
Johnson explained in the video:
"If you think it’s funny to shoot a laser at an airplane, it’s not. Let’s talk about why you can go to jail.”
“They will find you. They take this so seriously.”
"You will pay a hefty fine and you will likely go to jail up to five years.
"If you take down an airplane or if you actually blind a pilot with the laser, and you are the reason people end up hurt because of that, you’re probably going to jail a lot longer than just a stupid fine."
You can watch the video here:
Some chimed in to confirm what Johnson was saying in her video.
@sabrinaleej/TikTok
@sabrinaleej/TikTok
@sabrinaleej/TikTok
Others shared their own experiences with being lasered.
@sabrinaleej/TikTok
@sabrinaleej/TikTok
@sabrinaleej/TikTok
@sabrinaleej/TikTok
@sabrinaleej/TikTok
Some were shocked that this was even a thing that people found funny.
@sabrinaleej/TikTok
@sabrinaleej/TikTok
@sabrinaleej/TikTok
@sabrinaleej/TikTok
@sabrinaleej/TikTok
While some people might be getting a kick out of lasering various aircrafts, it's clear that this act is being taken seriously. If people want to do something to entertain themselves, they should probably choose something that doesn't include such hefty fines and jail time. Messing around with airplanes simply shouldn't be worth it.
@joehas/X