How Dangerous Are Laser Beams To Planes?

As a commercial jet is forced to abandon its course after a laser beam is shone into its cockpit, Sky News looks at high intensity lasers and the dangers they pose to aircraft if used recklessly. The Virgin Atlantic flight was on its way to New York on Sunday night  but had to return to London after one of the pilots had a "medical issue" following the incident. :: How common are laser incidents in the UK?