The Wiltshire Air Ambulance crew were ‘put at risk’ by a laser attack on Sunday (10 December).
The incident happened at around 9.10pm – as the Bell 429 helicopter headed for the charity’s airbase in Semington, near Melksham.
A “very bright green laser” was shone at the aircraft from the Trowbridge direction.
A similar laser attack took place on 22 August, as the crew returned to base, with the light being shone from the Hilperton area at 9.33pm.
At the time of Sunday’s incident, the team were returning to base following a training mission. The pilot and critical care paramedics on board were unharmed and landed safely.
Following checks they were able to continue their night shift.
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.
“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. It carries an unlimited fine and up to five years in prison.
Wiltshire Police is investigating. If you have any information please contact the force by calling 101 with the crime reference TAA-99559-23-5454-01.
