Air Ambulance Crew Dazzled by Laser During Emergency Callout

An air ambulance crew experienced dazzling from a laser pen directed at their aircraft during an emergency response. The Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) reported that a green laser was shone into the helicopter’s cabin while it was flying over Washington at 17:35 GMT on Monday. Pilot JJ Smith confirmed that no crew members sustained eye damage, though he described the incident as “incredibly dangerous”. GNAAS also stated that its aircraft have previously been targeted by lasers when returning to their base located near Eaglescliffe. Mr. Smith explained that directing lasers at aircraft can result in “temporary sight loss which can lead to the pilot losing control of the aircraft and putting themselves and the rest of the team at risk.” He further elaborated, stating, “In these instances, the pilot may be required to manoeuvre the aircraft to protect the crew from the source of the laser or change landing options, which could potentially delay our team delivering vital pre-hospital care to an ill or injured person.” He added that while individuals who shine lasers at helicopters “might think it’s fun to see what happens, but it’s actually a serious offence.” Individuals apprehended for shining a laser at an aircraft are subject to an unlimited fine and a prison sentence of up to five years.