Apparently even low power lasers, as those used as laser pointers can cause problems.
"CASE REPORTS. From January
1996 to July 1999, the FAA’s Western-Pacific Region identified more than 150 incidents in which low-flying
aircraft were illuminated by lasers. Laser pointers were used in the majority of these incidents, and there were
several occurrences of visual impairment to the pilot. Representative examples of documented reports are
presented that involved the illumination of civilian flight crewmembers by these hand-held devices.
CONCLUSIONS. Laser pointers have caused ocular injury and may compromise aviation safety when used
to illuminate aircraft in critical phases of flight."
http://www.hf.faa.gov/docs/508/docs/cami/0107.pdf
I know my laser flares are way more powerful than my laser pointer I use for briefings at work. The ones I linked to will pick up SOLAS grade reflector tape from a hell of a distance. I have the kind that goes on the back of a minimag flashlight and the stand alone that I had modified to fit on the butt of my surefire flashlights. They would have lit this planes cockpit up easy . Not real sure of the approach to Salt Lake but ya have Eagle Range, Dugway , Tooele Army Depot and Hill AFB in that region. Potential for a Spec Ops team practicing with laser designator on Eagle Range is high as that is normal day to day thang there.
Stay safe !