Neo,
I know what you mean with the determination, as it seems there is no hope. But just look at it this way. Even if we had “normal” colour vision then it is still a long hard slog to get to fATP level and then the problems of getting a job!! So CVD is just another problem to overcome in the larger picture.
As for the CAA testing, I agree with you. It is out of date and discriminatory and is not needed in today’s aviation. The Air Navigation Order only states colour vision to discern aviation colours (or similar wording – cannot remember the exact). This is where the FAA use the Light Signal Test – real aviation colours from a real control tower! There are 16500 CVD pilots in the USA 2000 have ATP and 5000 CPL so they WILL be in our skies all the time and are NOT causing any problems. Yes Millions of hours each year from professional CVD pilots with no problems. Congratulations FAA you have it right. Also CPL in Australia NO colour vision requirements for flying in Oz airspace – again NO problems.
The CAA is testing for “normal” colour vision with tests that colour normals will find hard and I feel the new tests when and if they come will be no better for us. Action is needed against the CAA, but in a controlled way. I have my own ideas, but will keep them to myself for the time as it’s going to take me a while to get to where I need to be for that!!
As for the tests. I would say go back to the optician and get a pair of correction glasses and prepare yourself for the tests at Gatwick and give them a try – give yourself the best try, sleep etc. To do the lantern tests you will have to do an eye chart first because of the distances from the lanterns (5 and 6 metres), but it is really very easy.
You are not alone and we all know how you are feeling, but people in our situation DO succeed and so can we.
Again all the best, keep your spirits up and keep flying.