Authorities will consider toughening penalties against people who shine dangerous laser beams at aircraft following an alarming rise in the number of such incidents.

There have been 14 cases so far this year, mainly in Perth and Melbourne, taking the total number around the nation to more than 30 since December 2004.

State and federal police are investigating the recent laser attacks and aviation regulatory authorities are looking at ways that penalties can be toughened.

Officials say shining lasers at aircraft not only endangers passengers and crew but also those on the ground.

The lasers -- some of which have ranges measured in kilometres -- can distract pilots, temporarily blind them or cause eye damage.

Confusion about what charges should be laid against those responsible for laser attacks has prompted discussions between the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, Airservices Australia and federal Transport Department officials.

Aviation legislation contains an offence for endangering the safety of an aircraft, with penalties of up to life imprisonment.

However, the legislation is primarily aimed at people travelling on aircraft and has not been tested in the courts when the alleged offender is on the ground.

A CASA spokesman said talks had examined ways of strengthening penalties as well as other possibilities, such as restricting the availability of powerful lasers.

"It's a stupid risk that shouldn't be there and from our part we'll do everything possible to make sure people who are caught are treated harshly and appropriately," the spokesman said.

The US treats laser attacks on aircraft as a terrorism offence and there has been talk of adopting a similar stance in Australia.

Offenders in the US face up to 25 years in jail and a $US500,000 ($672,400) fine if convicted.