Two Operators Report Aircraft Being Fired Upon – Response Checklist Available
In just the last week, NAAA has received reports that two aircraft, one in Kansas and one in Indiana, have been shot at by a firearm. The aircraft in Kansas was not hit, but the aircraft in Indiana sustained damage from the round fired at it. While both pilots escaped unscathed, this is a painful reminder that ag aircraft remain a target. There is very little a pilot can do to mitigate the risk of this occurring, but it is critical that these incidents are reported.
NAAA’s Shooting Response Checklist provides a short list of action items to ensure an incident is properly reported, including:
- Inform local law enforcement
- Contact the FBI
- Report it to the FAA National Safety Hotline
- Call your local Flight Standards Office (FSO)
- File a NASA Aviation Safety Report
- Inform other pilots
- Notify local news media
- Contact your insurance agent, if warranted
In both incidents this past week, the respective operators followed this checklist, in addition to notifying NAAA. The association remains available to offer additional assistance in the event of an ag aircraft shooting.
While more paperwork is the last thing anyone wants to deal with in July, your report can have an impact. Over and above state laws, it is a federal crime to shoot at an aircraft. Penalties can be as severe as 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Even the threat of shooting down an aircraft can result in a five-year prison sentence.
Your report could save another’s life.