A Flight Crew was targeted with a powerful green laser during climbout from SBGR/GRU and again on approach to its domestic destination. The Relief Officer's vision was affected by the SBGR laser hit.
Synopsis
A Flight Crew was targeted with a powerful green laser during climbout from SBGR/GRU and again on approach to its domestic destination. The Relief Officer's vision was affected by the SBGR laser hit.
Narrative
While serving as a First Officer; relief officer; from Sao Paulo; Brazil to ZZZ; I was struck by two separate 'laser attacks.' The first hit was on departure from Runway 27 in GRU; Sao Paulo; Brazil; climbing through 7000 FT approximately 10 miles west of the airport. I was the only member of the crew struck in the eyes. I had temporary blindness in my left eye followed by pain and trouble focusing. Sao Paulo ATC was notified and they responded; 'that happens almost everyday.' 8 hours later on approach to ZZZ; we were on downwind for Runway 9 at 3000 FT approximately 3-4 miles south of the final approach fix; when targeted. We spotted the laser before it struck the aircraft and we all ducked down as it swept through the cockpit twice. No one was struck. ATC was notified. Both lasers were powerful green lasers and obviously aimed at the airplane. After seeing an eye doctor; it looks like I will keep my full vision and be back to work soon; but at this time I have significant pain; minor vertigo and light sensitivity in my left eye.
Second reporter narrative
On downwind to Runway 9 at ZZZ descending from 3000 FT heading 270. I was flying pilot. As I started a base turn to heading 360; I saw/was exposed to a green laser that was obviously pointed toward my aircraft. All 3 pilots noticed it immediately and averted our eyes. Its location was roughly 1 quarter mile east of the line where the everglades begin and 3 miles south of the localizer for Runway 9. This was reported to ATC. Additionally; on climbout from GRU; at about 7000 FT and 10 miles west of the airport; First Officer was struck by a green laser in one of his eyes. It was located on the left side of the aircraft and I did not directly see it. He mentioned it immediately and we told ATC who said that it happened almost every day. Find the people responsible and post NOTAMS where this is a regular occurrence.
NASA callback
The reporter stated that at first he thought that he was seeing fireworks on a beautiful clear night over Sao Paulo. The next thing he thought was 'that could be a laser' and it hit his eye. His reflex response was immediately: he turned away and closed his eye. He estimated that the laser event lasted 0.2 seconds but the damage that he felt was immediate. He is returning to work this week.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.