Wiltshire’s vital Air Ambulance service has encountered a concerning laser attack, posing potential risks to the crew.
The incident unfolded near Trowbridge shortly after 9:00 pm on Sunday, 10th December. The pilot skillfully managed to execute a safe landing, steering the helicopter away from harm, as a ‘very bright green’ laser was deliberately directed towards the aircraft.
This incident occurred during a training mission, as the aircraft had recently undergone necessary servicing and repairs, marking its return to operational status.
Remarkably, this marks the second laser attack on the aircraft this year, with a strikingly similar incident occurring in August.
Talking about the incident, chief pilot Matt Wilcock said: “This incident happened while we were undertaking a training flight, but had we been responding to a medical emergency then we would not have been able to land and give critical care.
Yesterday evening our helicopter was subjected to a laser attack from the Trowbridge direction, as our crew were returning to our airbase after the conclusion of a training mission. Thankfully the pilot and the critical care paramedics on board were unharmed and landed safely. pic.twitter.com/DcUUWyC2iU
— Wiltshire Air Ambulance (@WiltsAirAmbu) December 11, 2023
“Shining a laser at an aircraft is dangerous and irresponsible. It can seriously damage the eyes of those on board, which in turn could place the entire aircraft at risk with potentially catastrophic effects.”
Shining a laser at an aircraft is a criminal offence, carrying an unlimited fine and up to five years in prison.
Wiltshire Police has initiated an investigation into the incident.
