Incident Details
During a visual approach, a bright blue light suddenly shone through the right cabin window and directly into the captain's right eye. The captain reported that as he continued the flight, his ability to see became difficult due to burning and tearing of the eye. By the time the aircraft was on final approach, the discomfort had become so severe that he relinquished the controls to the first officer, who landed the aircraft without further issue.
Medical Examination
A subsequent medical examination revealed that the captain had sustained multiple flash burns to his right cornea. Further examination by Air Force specialists determined that there was no permanent eye damage.
Investigation
Investigators were unable to locate the source of the laser light. No NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) for laser light activity were in effect at the time of the incident.
