Key Takeaways
- Glasses Allowed: You can fly with glasses or contacts if vision corrects to 20/20
- Standards Vary: Different requirements for First, Second, Third Class medicals
- Color Vision: Normal color vision required, but alternatives exist for deficiencies
- Surgery Accepted: LASIK and PRK allowed after healing period with documentation
- Regular Testing: Vision checked at every medical exam renewal
Pilot Vision Requirements Overview
Good vision is essential for safe flight operations, but you don't need perfect natural eyesight to become a pilot. Aviation medical authorities recognize that corrective lenses effectively address most vision issues. The vast majority of pilots wear glasses or contact lenses while flying professionally.
Vision requirements vary based on medical class and regulatory authority. The FAA (United States) and EASA (Europe) have similar but not identical standards. First Class medicals for airline transport pilots have stricter requirements than Third Class for private pilots. Understanding these distinctions helps you determine your eligibility and plan accordingly.
Modern aviation medicine accepts various corrective measures including glasses, contact lenses, and refractive surgery. Advances in vision correction technology have made aviation careers accessible to individuals with common vision conditions like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
FAA Vision Standards by Medical Class
First Class Medical
Airline Transport Pilots, Required for Part 121 Operations
Requirements
Second Class Medical
Commercial Pilots, Flight Instructors
Requirements
Third Class Medical
Private Pilots, Student Pilots
Requirements
EASA Vision Standards
Class 1 Medical (Professional Pilots)
- Distant Vision: 6/9 or better in each eye separately, 6/6 or better binocularly (with correction if needed)
- Near Vision: N5 or better at 30-50 cm, N14 at 100 cm (with correction if needed)
- Refractive Error: Not exceed +5/-6 dioptres, astigmatism not exceed 2 dioptres
- Color Vision: Pass Ishihara test or equivalent, anomalous trichromacy acceptable with limitations
- Contact Lenses: Permitted if corrected vision meets standards
Class 2 Medical (Private Pilots)
- Distant Vision: 6/12 or better in each eye separately, 6/9 binocularly (with correction)
- Near Vision: N5 at 30-50 cm and N14 at 100 cm (with correction if needed)
- Refractive Error: More lenient limits than Class 1
- Color Vision: Safe perception required but more flexible than Class 1
Flying with Glasses and Contact Lenses
Glasses Requirements
- Must carry spare pair during flight
- Medical certificate notes "must wear corrective lenses"
- Can use prescription sunglasses for glare
- Aviation-specific glasses available
- Ensure comfortable fit with headset
- Anti-reflective coating recommended
Contact Lenses
- Both soft and rigid lenses permitted
- Must carry backup glasses in flight
- More comfortable with headsets
- Consider dry cabin air conditions
- Daily disposables popular with pilots
- Keep rewetting drops available
Practical Considerations
Many professional pilots prefer contact lenses for comfort with aviation headsets and improved peripheral vision. However, cabin pressurization and dry air can cause discomfort on long flights. Glasses remain the most reliable option and are required as backup even when wearing contacts. Choose lightweight frames that fit comfortably under headset ear cups.
Color Vision Requirements and Testing
Color vision allows pilots to interpret aviation signals, chart symbols, instrument displays, and lighting systems. While normal color vision is preferred, individuals with color vision deficiency can pursue aviation careers with proper testing and potential operational limitations.
Standard Color Vision Tests
- Ishihara Plates: Most common initial screening, 14-38 plate versions
- Farnsworth Lantern Test (FALANT): Alternative test using colored lights
- Operational Color Vision Test (OCVT): Practical demonstration with aviation colors
- Light Gun Test: Demonstrate ability to distinguish tower light signals
- Medical Flight Test: In-flight evaluation with AME observer
Color Vision Deficiency Options
If you fail the Ishihara test, alternative testing methods may demonstrate sufficient color perception for aviation. The FAA offers Statement of Demonstrated Ability (SODA) for pilots who can pass alternative tests or demonstrate safe operation.
Potential limitations include: daytime flying only restrictions, requirement for co-pilot with normal color vision, specific aircraft equipment requirements, or additional periodic testing. Many pilots with mild color deficiency fly professionally with these accommodations.
Corrective Eye Surgery for Pilots
Refractive surgery has become widely accepted in aviation. Both FAA and EASA approve modern procedures including LASIK, PRK, and other techniques after appropriate healing and documentation. Many pilots choose surgery to eliminate dependence on corrective lenses.
LASIK Surgery
Most Popular Procedure
Details
PRK Surgery
Alternative Procedure
Details
Important Considerations
Inform your Aviation Medical Examiner before scheduling surgery. Complete all surgical follow-ups and obtain comprehensive records. Some pilots experience night glare or halos post-surgery that may affect night flying. Choose experienced refractive surgeons familiar with aviation requirements. Consider timing surgery during training breaks to avoid medical certificate delays.
The Aviation Medical Eye Exam Process
Distance Vision Test
Standard Snellen eye chart testing at 20 feet. Each eye tested separately, then together.
Near Vision Test
Reading card at 16 inches testing near acuity. Important for instrument reading in cockpit.
Color Vision Test
Ishihara plates or alternative testing. First medical only unless previous issues.
Eye Health Examination
External eye exam, pupil reaction, eye movement, peripheral vision assessment.
Documentation
Results recorded on medical certificate. Corrective lens requirement noted if applicable.
Preparation Tips
- Bring current glasses or contacts prescription
- Get adequate sleep before exam
- Avoid eye strain from screens the morning of exam
- Bring spare glasses if you wear contacts
- Inform AME of any eye surgeries or conditions
- Have eye doctor records available if needed
Common Vision Issues and Solutions
| Condition | Solution | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Myopia (Nearsighted) | Glasses, contacts, or surgery | None if corrected |
| Hyperopia (Farsighted) | Glasses, contacts, or surgery | None if corrected |
| Astigmatism | Corrective lenses or surgery | None if within limits |
| Presbyopia (Age-related) | Reading glasses or bifocals | Common over age 40 |
| Color Deficiency | Alternative testing or SODA | Possible restrictions |
| Monovision | May require waiver | Case-by-case approval |
Good News for Aspiring Pilots
The vast majority of vision conditions are correctable to aviation standards. Less than 5% of applicants are permanently disqualified for vision reasons. Modern corrective options including surgery have made aviation accessible to nearly everyone with motivation to fly. If you have vision concerns, consult an Aviation Medical Examiner early in your training to understand your specific situation and options.
Vision Requirements Summary
Vision requirements for pilots are comprehensive but manageable with modern corrective options. Whether you wear glasses, contacts, or consider refractive surgery, aviation careers remain accessible with proper correction. Most vision conditions that meet corrected standards pose no limitations on your flying career. Color vision deficiency represents the most challenging issue but alternative testing and operational accommodations allow many individuals to fly professionally. Consult with an Aviation Medical Examiner early if you have concerns, and maintain regular eye care to ensure continued medical certification throughout your career.