Laser pointer incidents are increasing around the globe, prompting a new focus on prosecuting offenders.

Incidents in the United Kingdom have increased from 30 in 2007 to some 1,600 in the first nine months of 2011. According to Eurocontrol, the number of reported incidents nearly quadrupled from 1,048 in 2008 to 4,266 last year.

Laser interference involves directing beams at an aircraft during takeoff and landing, which is most cases causes the pilots to be temporarily blinded or the beam reflects off the cockpit windshield, filling the cabin with unwarranted light.

Similar to legislation in the United States, where those who are caught shining a laser at aircraft are subject to an $11,000 fine by the FAA, in the United Kingdom, the maximum sentence for intentionally endangering aircraft is five years in jail.

This month, FAA created a website to make it easier to report and gather information about lasers pointed at commercial aircraft.