UK CAA and charity call for end to laser attacks on air ambulance helicopters

The UK Civil Aviation Authority and the charity Air Ambulances UK have jointly called for an end to laser attacks on air ambulance helicopters during UK Air Ambulance Week. Such attacks occur every month and can cause temporary blindness, distraction and even long-term eye damage to pilots; because most air ambulances operate with a single pilot, the risk is significant and critical patient care can be delayed. There were 94 attacks on emergency helicopters in 2025 and 35 in the first half of 2026. Targeting an aircraft with a laser is a criminal offence carrying up to five years in prison or an unlimited fine.