Large Transport; Low Wing; 2 Turbojet Eng
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Distraction; Physiological - Other
Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural FAR; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Security; Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event Illness / Injury; Inflight Event / Encounter Other / Unknown
Flight Crew Took Evasive Action; General Physical Injury / Incapacitation
Human Factors
We were shined by a green ground based laser multiple times while on visual approach at MDW. The laser went into my left eye causing my eye to water and to see a green spot when I closed my eye. I went to the hospital and was released without any permanent damage.This is the third time I have encountered a laser in flight in the last three months! We need to think asymmetrical to defeat this threat. As a past Air Defense Officer in the Army; I know an aircraft without lights is harder if not impossible to target.  Therefore; I make the sincere suggestion that when any aircraft reports a laser in the area; all the other aircraft should be allowed to turn off all of their lights including their beacon and navigation lights until clear of the threat. Also; when an arrest is made; I would suggest it be publicized so these brazen people that shine lasers at aircraft will be scared of being caught.
Air carrier First Officer reported being stuck in the eye by a laser while on a night visual approach to MDW. He suggested aircraft should turn off their lights in the vicinity of a reported laser event.