VISION THREAD (other than colour vision) 2 [Archive] - Page 2

MattLR

5th Apr 2016, 20:56

Hello all, im 17 years old and desperatly trying to find a way to become a commercial airline pilot as it is my dream :)

Problem is, one of my eyes has quite bad vision (since i was born). the other is perfect and both eyes combined are 6/5 (better than average). As you may know, the CAA are very anti people with bad vision in one eye --
"applicants for an initial class 1 medical certificate with substandard vision in one eye shall be assessed as unfit."

However, under FAA rules it is possible to get a SODA to prove your ability to receive a class 1 medical. The CAA, despite turning down new applicants will often assess someone as fit it they are revalidating a class 1 medical with substandard vision in one eye --
"At revalidation, applicants with acquired substandard vision in one eye shall be referred to the licensing authority and may be assessed as fit if it is unlikely to interfere with safe exercise of the licence held."

Does this mean i can obtain a class 1 medical under the FAA rules and come to the UK and get my class 1 medical revalidated? i know its a long process but i'm willing to go to these lengths to be a pilot.

If not, does anyone have any suggestions as to any other possible ways of becoming a commercial airline pilot?

Cwjohnstone

13th Apr 2016, 14:13

Hi everybody, was wondering if there's anybody on here who was outside of the eyesight requirements for the class 1 medical but was granted one anyway? I'm 32, been short sighted all my life and my prescription is -6.75 so am out of the range for uncorrected. It says on the CAA website that you may be granted a class 1 medical but would be up to an opthomologist. So.... Any fellow blind people out there with a class 1? Also, do the airlines accept the CAA medical before they appoint pilots or are you required to undergo a separate one, and if so do any of them have more stringent eyesight requirements?

Many thanks

Fil777

5th May 2016, 14:48

Hello every one,
I am stuck with my initial class 1:
I hold a Italian PPL and class 2 medical issued from the italian authority
With no limitations,
Now i need the class 1 medical from any easa authority the problem is that i have astigmatism 3.5 left eye and 4.75 right eye but i can reed 7/10 each eye and 10/10 both eyes with my glasses that are corrected to

left
sf cyl axes
-0.25 -1.75 169°
right
sf cyl axes
-0.75 -1.50 180
That is less then 2 for astigmatism and way far from the other limits.

What should i do or where should i go to do my initial class 1?

Thanks for the help

Fil777

5th May 2016, 19:34

Hello everyone
Have a question about dioptre limit for astigmatism:
Maybe i didnt get it wright but am a bit confused
The part med stipulate that i have to read 7/10 each eye and 10/10 both eyes with or without corrections must not exeed 2 dioptre.
Now i have astigmatism 3.5 left eye and 4.5 right eye
But my lenses are corected 1.5left and 1.7 right and i dont know if i am fit for class 1 or not
Thanks for the help

Akarsh Saxena

15th May 2016, 15:05

I have 6/6 vison in both eyes afterin wearing 1.5 power lenses. Will it deprive me of class 1 or 2 or any other medical certificate by dgca.
Please also tell if this will place any problem in my professional life as commercial pilot.

FlyANA

16th May 2016, 13:58

For people's information on here as it's a question that comes up a lot, I got my initial Class 1 with Astigmatism of 3.25 in both eyes. My AeMC cleared me as fit to fly on the provision that I carry spare spectacles with me. I had to undertake a barrage of tests and eyesight imaging that cleared me of any eye disease or illness.

I was told having a strong astigmatism would rule me out from being able to fly when I was younger and put off following my career. But it turns out that it's not true.

VFR Transit

24th Jul 2016, 14:34

I have an astigmatism greater than -2.0 in my left eye, i know this fails the EASA Class 1 medical Initial.

What are my options, does this mean additional tests?

Advice would be good.

Basil Fawlty1

30th Aug 2016, 16:34

Hello all - does anyone know if the eyesight requirements for new Class 1 certificates relate to a contact lense prescription or glasses prescription ?

According to the CAA, for short sightedness, the maximum allowable correction is -6.0. I wear lenses 90% of the time and my prescription is bang on the number of -6.0. However, if I look at my glass prescription it's -6.50.

I'll be contacting an eye examiner to confirm before I do anything, however, thought I'd check here to see if anyone has been in or heard of a similar situation. Other than being short sighted my eyes are perfectly healthy.

Thanks in advance....

jamesgrainge

31st Aug 2016, 16:01

Any corrective lenses are supposed to be fine! Just gets noted should be worn, which sounds exactly the same as me unfortunately. Glasses suck!

RedBullGaveMeWings

31st Aug 2016, 16:28

As far as I know, there are no myopia limits anymore. There are no pre-operative limits anymore either.
As long as you attain a 7/10 corrected visual acuity monocularly and 10/10 corrected visual acuity binocularly you are fit to fly.

Do not worry and go there relaxed. Go there with glasses rather than contacts and if possible a report from your ophthalmologist – I did not have one on my initial but it was not a problem.

I am assuming you are talking about EASA. FAA requisites are even more relaxed.

Mickey Kaye

31st Aug 2016, 18:35

It refers to spectacle correction.

Its all here. Including a very handy excel spreadsheet.

https://www.caa.co.uk/Aeromedical-Examiners/Medical-standards/Pilots-%28EASA%29/Conditions/Visual/Visual-system-guidance-material-GM/

RedBullGaveMeWings

31st Aug 2016, 18:41

I am sure that as long as he attains the minimum corrected visual acuity he will be alright. I was concerned about my astigmatism that is 3 dioptres (the limit is 2) and I was issued a Class 1 after having read the letters on the Snellen chart.

zeltus

1st Sep 2016, 13:49

I now need to wear glasses for computery stuff, reading and gazing in disbelief at the fuel gauges.

Do any other pilots (Professionals or GA's, I'm not proud) have any recommendations for prescription Ray-Bans or similar? A quick search on-line shows no websites that look reputable for this. There must be someone who specialises in making us look like the heroes we aspire to be.

Wouldn't mind a pair with clear lenses as well, for reading the sunday papers while waiting for the weather to clear.

As ever, any advice and help gratefully received.

zeltus

6th Sep 2016, 12:29

rxsport.co.uk look to be what I was looking for.

Bit of a not-all-that-ergonomic website, but I can get prescription, non-polarised lenses in a Ray-Ban frame - jsut what I was looking for.

VendeeGlobe

17th Nov 2016, 03:52

Apologies re. the wrong forum - not sure what else suits.

Been short sighted for years, and now things are going blurry close up.

Interested in opinions between bifocals or progressives for airline flying. I'm advised the bifocals have a better field of vision?

Any information much appreciated.

flyburg

17th Nov 2016, 13:03

Had reading glasses for a few years now for reading maps and stuff. Noticed however that instruments where getting blurry as well, especially at night. Found myself flying with reading glasses on the tip of my nose.

Decided on varifocals about 4 weeks ago and pretty happy with them. Takes a while to get used to them but love them now.

Tips if you decide on varifocals, don't go cheap! I took the varilux S2 which apparently are about the best out there.
Have the glasses large enough! My ego got the best of me and I bought these small rimless glasses, I also put them in my ray ban wayfarers, which are large and found that the wayfarers are actually even better.

Go to a good optician and explain what you need!

Good luck!

Kenny

17th Nov 2016, 14:45

At the grand old age of 42 I found I was using my iPhone light to read the menu in dark restaurants and even though most people don't need reading glasses until around 45, I ended up getting my first pair of progressives.

They take a bit of getting used to as you now need to move your head around to find the sweet spot but it becomes second nature fairly quickly. The only thing I dislike is when I look at the overhead panel. It requires me to tilt my head all the way back and can be a pain in the neck, literally.

I started out with rodenstock lenses and they were outstanding. I'm now using varilux lenses and they're not as good. I need to move my head around more. If you can get rodenstock lenses, I'd recommend it. They're not cheap but you'll notice the difference between a cheap lens and an expensive one.

VG, I just noticed you're in Sydney. I got my progressives from the following place in the Dymocks Building. Can't recommend them enough and they do rodenstock lenses. They'll take the time to discuss the various options and cost.

http://johndellamartaoptometrists.com.au

Nightstop

17th Nov 2016, 15:41

Varifocals should be banned for pilots! I've recently spent a fortune on these vision distorting lenses on recommendation of my AME..they are totally unsuitable for avaition use. Peripheral vision is non existent, you have to turn your head to get get a clear view..ridiculous. Go for Bifocals, the lower section can be prescribed for map reading distance and the upper main section for the instrument panel. In my case I look over the top for long range/ landing.

Intruder

17th Nov 2016, 15:58

In the cockpit of an airliner, the reduction in field of view is not an issue, because you are enclosed by all the structure, and you are normally focused on a small area anyhow.

I usually wear regular trifocals, but use progressives in the cockpit (744). I much prefer them, because the lines of the trifocals are distracting in the enclosed environment. For ALL other uses (including driving, where I REALLY rely on my peripheral vision), I wear the trifocals.

As you will note here, not all people like progressive lenses, for various reasons. It is a VERY personal decision. Some people just cannot adapt to them. For that reason, most opticians (at least in the US) will refund your money or make you a pair of trifocals if you cannot adapt to the progressives.

Nightstop

17th Nov 2016, 16:25

I disagree, I use my peripheral vision constantly in the flightdeck.
To focus on one area encourages tunnel vision. What's the point of the AME doing those peripheral vision tests during your recurrent medical if they're not required!

Bergerie1

17th Nov 2016, 16:58

For what it's worth, I used bifocals when I was flying with the cut-off aligning with the glare-shield when looking comfortably ahead. Now, long after I have retired, I have varifocals - they are very good except when I need to be aware of my spacial awareness, like climbing ladders, etc. I don't know whether this is relevant in the cockpit environment but I resisted wearing varifocals when I was flying so that I would not grab the wrong switch when reaching out near my peripheral vision.

4Screwaircrew

17th Nov 2016, 17:39

I use varifocals in the 737 and my L18c, so much better than lenses for distance and glasses for reading plates, as has been said before don't go cheap and ensure the frames are big enough.

flyburg

17th Nov 2016, 17:47

Interesting study done by the USAF regarding PAL's versus bifocals.

http://www.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/a279698.pdf

Mansfield

17th Nov 2016, 21:11

I've been using progressive lenses for about 10 years. I concur with Kenny regarding the overhead panel, but I'm used to it. I explained to the doc that I needed to focus on four distances: the approach chart, the instrument panel, the first officer's instrument panel, and the runway at decision height. I need correction for all four.

The progressives do fine. I don't even think about them anymore. As far as peripheral vision, I've never noticed an issue. I do know that at altitude on a clear day, if I move my eyes too quickly to the left, the floater in my left eye does one hell of a good imitation of a large jet barely passing over the left wing at a supersonic closure rate...and in the hotel, the floater in my right eye has been known to create the impression of a large spider crawling across the sheet. Both very momentary illusions, but useful for clearing one's arteries nonetheless!

VendeeGlobe

18th Nov 2016, 02:01

Ladies and gents

Thank you all for the very informative gen.

Much appreciated

Capn Bloggs

18th Nov 2016, 04:20

Go the trifocals. Distance, Instrument Panel and reading. :ok:

27/09

18th Nov 2016, 09:06

I find the line on bifocals annoying and distracting. I prefer progressives, however they can take some getting used to. Get the best lenses you can, there is a noticable difference especially in the peripheral vision.

Intruder

18th Nov 2016, 12:05

"Best" is a subjective measure.

There are MANY lens patterns for progressives, even from single manufacturers. The width of the various fields (far/mid/near) varies significantly, and can make the difference between a BAD pair of glasses and a GOOD pair.

Capt Claret

19th Nov 2016, 07:56

I don't think any person can "tell" you what to get. Nor can they make sweeping statements like "Varifocals (which I assume is another term for progressive lenses) should be banned for pilots".

Glasses are such a personal thing that it is presumptuous for someone to stipulate to another what is, or is not acceptable.

I tried bi-focals and hated the bloody things. I've used progressives now for about 10 years or so, never had any problems with them, and for me, I reckon they're the greatest thing since sliced bread. :ok:

Fly3

20th Nov 2016, 03:37

FWIT i have used progressives for about 15 years and apart from driving home from the opticians the first time I've never had any problems using them on the flight deck.

vapilot2004

20th Nov 2016, 11:14

I wear contact lenses, and my eye gal prescribed a set for flying that backs off on the distance vision (I was over 20/10), allowing my aging eyeballs to read the smallest bits on the panel before me without bifocals or blended lenses.

A compatriot of mine did LASIK to 20/40 (or 50 I can't recall) and has a light prescription for distance vision, and a set of bifocals for flying when needed, although he claims with the LASIK, his no correction vision gets the job done most of the time.

Capn Bloggs

20th Nov 2016, 11:28

although he claims with the LASIK, his no correction vision gets the job done most of the time.

Gets the job done with 20/40? Are you serious?

vapilot2004

20th Nov 2016, 13:58

For life in general, yes. That's what our guy with LASIK claims.

I've tried a prescription that gives me 20/30 vision and am able to safely drive (road signs, potential hazards in the distance etc all visible) as well as read the smallest of text like a teenager and go on extended gadabouts and operate heavy machinery (weed whacker etc) with no trouble at all.

For work, knocking a quarter or a half a diopter value off my 20/10 lens prescription allows me to have around 20/20 and be able to read up close. It's a great compromise and many people are unaware you can ask your optometrist to go up or down a quarter or more in power and be in perfect compliance with either your regulator or the company rules.

742

21st Nov 2016, 02:25

There are several different progressive lenses available.

I found the basic progressive lenses that I first tried to be unusable for flying. Fortunately I then found an optometrist who works with pilots, and the second round had very good results. Expensive, but worth it.

So it is not just a progressive/bifocal question. Which progressive lens matters a great deal.

Rick777

21st Nov 2016, 03:59

I have pretty close to 20/20 but need readers. I went to an AME with a bad eye machine and wound up with must wear glasses on my medical. I got progressives with minimal distance correction and have been wearing them ever since, and I retired 9 years ago. They just work really well for me. My wife (not a pilot) hates them. Everyone is different.

No Fly Zone

21st Nov 2016, 11:25

Quick Personal Observation: Eyeglasses are an extremely personal choice. Vitally important for pilots and one simply has to TRY some to know what works best for YOU. Any GOOD optician will remake if you are not satisfied, BUT, you do have to invest a little time to give them a fair trial.
If seen more than one pilot using what amount to TRIFOCALS while flying: The TOP most section is a small area for close viewing the overhead panel, mid section for distant vision and another small lower section (same or different Rx as the top) for maps and reading text. They do look a little funny, but the DO work. For obvious reasons, some electricians also use this style. You can HELP your option/optometrist by premeasuring some distances: Bridge of nose to OH panel and bridge to your usual text/chart reading distance. Get some help from a colleague or spouse to make the measurements. The idea may sound/look a little strange, but the configuration works if you get the measurements and degree of correction correct. Standard bifocals are probably better for normal use and for driving. I'm told that progressives can also be made this way, but personally, I've had horrible luck with the type, even for standard, everyday use. Good luck and please be sure to tell your providers about your work, what you need and ask a lot of questions. You WILL get there! -NFZ

Dan Winterland

22nd Nov 2016, 04:39

I've been using varifocals for about three years now and although they take a while for you to train yourself how to use them, they have been great. My advice - don't skimp on the optician and lens cost. Also, chose frameless. The frameless advice is from a fellow 'Magoo' and helps with peripheral vision. Also, when learning how to use them, you will find them different and it takes a while for your brain how to process the image. While you are learning - do not go back to your regular glasses- Once you have the new varifocals, there's no reversion mode!

Of course, it all depends on your prescription. In my case, my close up vision is OK, but my accommodation (ability to change focus) was getting poorer as my eye's lenses hardened with age. I am also astigmatic.

BTW - if you are prescribed with bi/varifocals in New Zealand, you are grounded for 3 months while you get used to them.

LTCTerry

12th Dec 2016, 12:10

I'll weigh in with a couple thoughts. I very much like my progressive lenses. As others have commented, some are better than others.

Generally, the entire upper half of the lens is for distance, while a narrow column down the middle has the "reading" part. (OK, the transition from infinity to reading distance...) Typically, the cheaper the lens, the narrower this corrected center part is. the lower corners of the lenses have no correction.

Paying extra for "thin lenses" gets you a high refractive index plastic lens that only works well when viewed on axis, i.e., you have to turn your head rather than just move your eyes. The first time I had this (pre reading correction days) I went back to regular plastic for a few more years.

Find a good place to get what you need. Be persnickety and willing to pay for it. You should not need more than a couple minutes to "get used to the new glasses." I had a pair once that gave me a horrible headache until I figured out the optical center of the lens was not in front of my eye! Back they went.

For a few years I had a pair sunglasses with no reading correction - the reading part was useless when sharing a thermal with several other gliders. I could still safely see the panel.

An optician I visited in Munich once specialized in eyewear for athletes and had many pilots as customers. She was all about seeing well rather than looking good.

Did you know you can actually get little spot lenses that will cling to the inside of your lens? You can have a spot of reading correction in the corner of otherwise "infinity" glasses.

MaximumPete

13th Dec 2016, 08:49

I used varifocals for years without any problems and, yes, they take a bit of getting used to. The best pair I had was plain tinted glass at the top and gradually changing to clear for flight deck work. I used a totally clear pair at night. Cataracts got the better of me and I had lens replacement in both eyes. Sadly now retired and just use standard reading glasses when necessary.

Good luck

dirkdj

16th Dec 2016, 19:49

The first pair of varifocals I got was horrible, tunnel vision is too nice a description, I gave them back. The optometrist searched and found a solution: Seiko glass, expensive but day and night; like Cinemascope instead of a keyhole.
I would never want anything else again.

rans6andrew

17th Dec 2016, 22:26

Much useful info here. In my case I need +1.75 correction for distance, +3.25 for reading/close up and -0.75 astigmatism correction. When I first needed glasses my prescription was a little less than this but not much. I tried varifocals but really couldn't get on with them. The distortion of everything through them and the way it changed as I move about made me feel a bit sea sick. I make small mechanical stuff by hand in my work and I can't manage the distortion and size change you get when you tilt your head. Straight lines become curved, right angles might be more than 90 deg or less than 90 deg and trying to use the microscope was a non starter with them on. I also never got used to having to point your face directly at something and nod the right amount to get it in focus. Peripheral vision was crap, my eyes naturally see a very wide field of view. I tried to get used to them for a few weeks but was un-nerved when driving and when I flew, with a safety pilot, just didn't feel safe. My landings were totally off with loss of peripheral vision.

My solution is contact lenses. As a single lens can only correct two aspects from the distance/close up/astigmatism I have settled on one lens (for one eye) for close up with astigmatism correction and one lens (for the other eye) for distance with astigmatism correction. I don't have any motion/distortion sea sickness issues, stuff I work on has straight straights and square right angles and I can use the microscope OK. My peripheral vision is like a wide screen cinema view again. It did take a short while to get used to most things being only in sharp focus in one eye but your brain sorts that out quite quickly. I can even use my old non prescription Ray Bans. I also don't spend half my life trying to find my glasses. Win win.

Irishwingz

20th Dec 2016, 12:49

Hi Guys

I'm looking to re-test to see if I can get a Class 1 - the issue being my prescription is +5.75. There used to be a thing called a deviation (12 years ago) which could allow you get a class 1 if you fall outside the limits. I think the upper limit was +3 but now it appears to be +5 so maybe there is hope.

|'ve been out of the loop for over 10 years on this subject so if anybody has advice I'd appreciate it.

cheers!

HGT_Fly95

18th Jan 2017, 07:30

Hello. Recently been down to Gatwick and failed my class 1 due to eyesight. Everything else was perfect, but my left eye let me down. I always had a lazy eye as a child and had the usual patch and other things when I was a child. I went for an eye test at my local eye shop and they confirmed I was very much on the borderline and would have to see what they CAA Say. Obviously as I'm sure you can imagine, I was VERY disappointed with the result. Can anything be done? The CAA doctor said nothing, but there is such things as lazy eye training, eye surgery? Anybody got any experience? How can I dispute what the CAA?

Thanks.

SPH CYLINDER AIX

L +0.50 -1.00 175
R +3.00 -1.75 25

This is my current prescription, I have just spoken to the AME who has conducted the test. He Said my left eye reached 6/12 with glasses and 6/18 without glasses. My right was above standard. He said I was just over a line of the chart.

he said both my eyes were very stable, would things such as correction vision, or amblyopia treatment increase my chances

Private jet

18th Jan 2017, 22:25

My suggestion is get a life where your body & health is your own personal business, nobody else's and physicians are there to cure you not test you. Look at the state of the industry and look at your fail as a lucky escape.

Twin Squirrels

20th Jan 2017, 14:00

Dear HGT 95

Sorry for your disappointment with your medical.

My advice is dated, but I would recommend that you seek specialist advise from an eye surgeon. Many years ago I worked with a surgeon who operated on the eye muscles of "lazy "eyes with a high degree of success. I remember him saying that a lot of middle aged people need treatment due to lack of follow up progress checks from when they were younger.

Hope my advice helps, and good luck.

HGT_Fly95

7th Feb 2017, 12:45

Hello,

How would you Appeal a class 1 medical rejection? I presume write to the CAA, AME?

Flyin'Dutch'

11th Feb 2017, 10:32

A quick Google reveals the following:

https://www.caa.co.uk/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=4294976715

Dw101

11th Feb 2017, 17:47

I have vision within the caa requirements apart from an astigmatism of 2.5 in my left eye.

Apart from this my eyes are in good health and have recently been examined by a specialist.

My question is. Are these these limits set in stone or can they be relaxed with some other testing ?

Also what are the options ?

Many thanks in advance

boingdrvr

11th Feb 2017, 21:11

"Fortunately I then found an optometrist who works with pilots, and the second round had very good results. Expensive, but worth it."

742

Where abouts did you find this Dr.? I live in the Mid Ohio Valley near Cincinnati.

Flyin'Dutch'

12th Feb 2017, 11:57

The best way to find out where you are in relation to eyesight is to study in detail the CAA's requirements on these pages:

https://www.caa.co.uk/Aeromedical-Examiners/Medical-standards/Pilots-(EASA)/Conditions/Visual/Visual-system-guidance-material-GM/

In the bottom right hand corner of that page is a tool called: SpecCalc when you punch in the number of your correction it will come up with 2 possible answers.

OK Class 1 Renewal/Revalidation
OK Class 1 Initial

If you are OK for Class 1 Initial then your prescription is acceptable; if you are OK Class 1 Renewal/Revalidation then the CAA will have to review your case in detail.

Apart from the prescription required the other important issue is whether your visual acuity is acceptable. The limits are also on that CAA page but for brevity I have copied and pasted them down here:

(c)
Distant visual acuity, with or without correction, shall be:

(1) in the case of class 1 medical certificates, 6/9 (0,7) or better in each eye separately and visual acuity with both eyes shall be 6/6 (1,0) or better;

If you don't meet the visual acuity it is very very unlikely that you will be able to get a Class 1 Medical Certificate.

Dw101

13th Feb 2017, 17:59

Thanks very much. Am getting the acuity information from the opticians as the calculator does not 👌🏼

HGT_Fly95

14th Feb 2017, 08:25

Hello,

I understand this is a very broad question - however without to much detail the CAA Failed me for an initial class 1 medical application a few weeks ago. My Right Eye reaches the standards of 6/12, My Left eye 6/6, and together 6/4. As you can imagine I'm hugely disappointed and this has shattered my dreams from a very young age. I have a PPL and also started my ATPL's so spent a fair bit of money.

What other ways can I become a commercial pilot? FAA Route? Other places within Europe?

Any advice would be appreciated. :D

KilroyWasHere

15th Feb 2017, 08:45

Hi HGT,

"My Right Eye reaches the standards of 6/12, My Left eye 6/6, and together 6/4."

This is with glasses ?
And 6/4 - are you sure?

ICAO requires at least 6/9 each eye (with glasses) and 6/6 or better binocular ((both eyes)with glasses).
Best to ask your eye surgeon if you can achieve that and will you able to maintain that kind of distance vision for the next 20-30 years of your flying career?

If you can't achieve that it's better to look for another career rather than spend a lot money to get trained then become unfit later.

Dreams aside - unless you have money to burn.

wiggy

15th Feb 2017, 14:09

HGT

.....also started my ATPL's so spent a fair bit of money

I'm genuinely sad to hear that you didn't get the Class 1 and I hope you can find a "fix" but at the risk of sounding unsympathetic probably the most frequently offered advice to those thinking of starting ATPLs, etc is:

"get your Class 1 before starting training".

What other ways can I become a commercial pilot? FAA Route? Other places within Europe?

You have to be realistic. Having the required acuity of vision isn't a trivial arbitrary hurdle put in place by the authorities to trip you up, it's fundamental requirement to doing the actual job safely ( not your safety so much as the safety of fare paying passengers). I think LookingForAJob put it very well:

the medics in the CAA would fall over backwards to try to find a way to enable a licence holder to keep their medical certification. On the other hand, someone who only marginally meets the medical standard at initial application, and particularly if the criterion in question is likely to deteriorate with age, would probably not be granted a medical for a professional licence. I very much doubt that this would be written down or that anyone would admit to it officially but if you think about it objectively it makes some sense - rather than to cause greater disappointment, after great expense to get a licence, by decisively failing a medical check soon after.

England2

15th Feb 2017, 16:47

Hi, I was looking at doing my Class 1 Medical at some point in the future but have a question regarding eyesight and astigmatism.
I have -2.25 astigmatism in both eyes. My question is, is it still possible to pass? I do wear glasses/contact lenses to correct this but not sure if this matters as the limit is 2. would this be acceptable if glasses correct this or no?

Thank you

ahwalk01

16th Feb 2017, 11:31

I have been through this on the FAA side and there is a special issuance process via a medical flight test. I don't know if the CAA offer the same, but would be interested to find out.

Flyin'Dutch'

16th Feb 2017, 20:32

The CAA in the past may have been able to offer a Class 1 with an OML which then might have been able to come off on successful completion of the CPL flight test.

This is not possible under EASA regulations.

Ice Man

18th Feb 2017, 00:50

Have any current Class One Medical holders had any experience with "Blended Laser Vision" as offered by the London Vision Clinic?

Any information regarding your dealings with the authority, would be appreciated.

HGT_Fly95

26th Feb 2017, 12:37

Hi Guys,

What are the rules regarding contact lenses? I understand the the requirement for spectacles are different? The only information i can find upon the internet and the CAA Website for contact Lenses is that both eye must be 6/6 or better and 6/9 separately?

Anymore information?

Nightstop

21st Apr 2017, 13:15

Essilor are about to launch (22nd May '17) their Varilux X progressive range in the UK. From what my Optician says these are likely to be a game changer in progressive type glasses. Very little peripheral vision issues and much better clarity up to arms length distances, so should be ideal in the flightdeck. Also far less curvature of straight lines than most other progressives. Will report back in May/June with a review. Meanwhile see:

UK English video:

https://ecp.essilor.co.uk/lenses/varifocals/varilux-x-series

Loose rivets

21st Apr 2017, 22:14

Mate, very technical, buys a pair of the best vary-focals. The main issue is the width of the middle vision, that's the bit that's too skinny on cheaper lenses - to the point of making it necessary to twist one's neck even when reading a book. anyway, he's pleased as Punch with his.

So pleased is he that he takes extreme care of them, to the point of taking them off at night and carefully placing them on the bedside table without wearing the hinges unnecessarily. Now this is a bloke that makes exquisite jewellery. He knows a thing or two about tichy mechanisms.

All goes well . . . for one year and one day.

He picked them up and one of the arms fell off. No, I couldn't stop laughing either when he told me.

Oh, my overhead panel glasses.

My $5 hornrimmed readers worked perfectly for the panel front and above. I could see the square root of buggah all when looking ahead. Solution was to Dremel out a slot.

Nice lady co-pilot gawps at me. "What the heck are they?"

"Oh, I was told I looked cool in glasses, but had to cut a bit out to see where we're going."

No wonder my crews used to find me a bit odd. Most of them understood my sense of humour thank heavens.

rjtjrt

21st Apr 2017, 23:01

Essilor are about to launch their Varilux X progressive range in the UK. From what my Optician says these are likely to be a game changer in progressive type glasses. Very little peripheral vision issues and much better clarity up to arms length distances, so should be ideal in the flightdeck. Also far less curvature of straight lines than most other progressives. Will report back in May/June with a review. Meanwhile see:

Lentes Varilux X Series | BlogVision (http://www.opticalh.com/blog/en/varilux-x-series/)

Nightstop, please do report back. Very interested in how they perform.

Lodems

1st May 2017, 07:57

Risking a slight thread creep, has anyone tried lens replacement surgery? I have used bi-focal and later varifocal spectacles fairly successfully over the last 30 years, from the time I noticed problems in reading letdown plates in low light in the Sim. I am long-sighted and now working up-close doing maintenance on my pre-war Stinson I need a separate pair of high-correction glasses and I find that very frustrating. If these new replacement lenses work as claimed this could be a permanent solution. I reckon I will already have spent at least £3000 on spectacles over the years, so for a younger pilot it sounds a sensible option. I will certainly consider it.Does anyone know of a downside- apart from cost?

Loose rivets

1st May 2017, 11:08

Have yer eyes cut open just to change the focus? Mmmm . . . as someone sitting here having just had the second lens replaced (c 10 years after the first) I'm certain I'd not do it if it hadn't been absolutely necessary.

Yes, I'd pay a fortune for perfect variable focus lenses but I'd need to know they were going to be what it says on the tin. The problem is, at our age things change quite quickly - so logically, a new brain-programmable lens would be the answer. But . . .

If these new replacement lenses work as claimed this could be a permanent solution.

If!? There's the rub. I wouldn't want to be trying to read the guarantee fine print with ones that didn't work.:ooh:

Still not sure how that technology is coming along - I suspect you've researched it thoroughly but given the adjustment to the interocular lens is counter-intuitive in force/direction, I'm amazed it can be done at all. Getting the Cylinder angle right must be either not addressed or very difficult.

A lot of error seems to be in the cornea. (I was astonished to find my Cyl. correction was the same angle as before.)

One hears great things about laser for this kind of error but I'd not go that route either unless I really couldn't stand the alternative.

MaximumPete

1st May 2017, 15:05

Cataracts -Yes, get them sorted.

Focus improvement-No, leave well alone.

Steer clear of varifocal lens replacements! I've heard nothing good about them.

JDavola

10th May 2017, 23:20

Is it still possible to pass a class 1 medical with monocular vision? (6/6 in one, and 6/60 in the other)

Capn Bloggs

10th May 2017, 23:37

Not here. You have to have at least 6/9 in either eye, with 6/6 using both eyes.

JDavola

11th May 2017, 02:08

Cheers, I'm assuming you're in the U.K.?

Capn Bloggs

11th May 2017, 02:25

Australia.

Loose rivets

11th May 2017, 21:05

I'm totally perplexed. I called the hospital today and asked - 'Is there anything about this lens you haven't told me. That is, is it variable focus?'

Left the last checkup with crystal clear distance vision on the drive home. Next day I recalled I'd taken the lens out of my computer glasses, yet perfect vision at 18" It doesn't obey instant commands but it's early days.

Too much to hope. Perhaps the lens they put in is loose.:ouch: Do the NHS ever put in variable lenses? I'll know on the 18th of the month when I get to see the surgeon. If he's in focus.:p

neilmrobinson

30th Sep 2017, 16:41

Hi all

I have eyesight -6.25 dipotres prescription left eye and -5.50 in my right eye.

On the CAA website it stipulates that the limit is -6.00 dipotres. It also hints that if applicants are over this limit, they may still be considered fit provided all other pathology ok.

I went to Heathrow yesterday for my Class 1 Initial Eyesight test and it's been referred to the CAA to decide. All other checks on my eyes showed them to be healthy. Considering this, and how very slight I am over prescription wise, do I stand a good chance of getting a fit declaration?

Any advice appreciated... Crossing all fingers.

neilmrobinson

1st Oct 2017, 21:26

neilmrobinson

2nd Oct 2017, 18:04

Any advice appreciated... waiting nervously

Maverick97

2nd Oct 2017, 19:23

Hi guys, slightly off topic but still relevant. If an airline asks for (in this case EK) 'an unrestricted class one medical certificate', what does this actually mean? For example if you obtain a Class 1 with notes or need corrective lenses does this count as a 'restriction'?

Jazzer83

2nd Oct 2017, 20:18

I have astigmatism in both eyes of -2.25, does that rule me out of a class 1 medical?

Nightstop

5th Oct 2017, 06:59

Well, in answer to my promise (in post 318) to report back about the Essilor X 4D varifocals I have to say I was very dissapointed with them. Although periferal vision was better than my previous attempt at varifocals (Essilor Comfort lenses) the non distorted field of view was limited to a very narrow vertical strip in the centre of the lens, outside of which straight lines were curved. I found that unacceptable when viewing the EFIS screens, so I have reverted to Executive style bifocals with the top section suitable for distant vision and the lower section prescribed to focus adequately at distances between 36cms and 96cms. Ideal for the aircraft type I operate and no distortion.

Lyrr3d

8th Oct 2017, 11:25

I’m an FAA cpl that recently moved to the UK. I plan on converting my licenses and was recently deemed unfit when I tried to get my initial class 1 medical.
This was due to failing my eye test (I have keratoconus in my right eye.) Unfortunately, I went in with my glasses that were prescribed to me years ago. I had no idea my prescription changed. After being refused, I went to an optician and they gave me a new prescription. I am now comfortably within the limits (6/5 in left eye, 6/7 in right eye) I can see better than 6/6 with both. Should I go to a consultant ophthalmologist?
Is the CAA appeals process straight forward, or will it be long and drawn out? Does the initial unfit assessment negatively affect me in a tremendous way?
Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

mattria

14th Oct 2017, 07:59

Hello,

I’ve seen a lot of threads on here with people panicking about their vision and worrying that they won’t pass the Class 1 Medical. I just want to clear a few things up and put some peoples minds at rest. I have just had my medical and passed it.

Try to ignore anything on the forum that states you have no hope if your over the initial limit. The CAA guidelines state that you can be assessed fit if you exceed the initial requirements, provided there’s no pathological condition. Basicallly, the eye specialist at the medical will send a report to a consultant, who will review it and sign it off if there are no issues. It then goes to the CAA to sign off.

The CAA guidelines also state you can be assessed fit if you drastically exceed the requirements and you’re going for a renewal. Again, there must be no pathological condition, and depending on how bad your refraction is, you would be required to see a specialist either every two or five years.

I have been through this and passed with no problems. Please don’t worrry if you are over the initial requirements. You are still able to obtain the Class 1.

I hope this helps some people.

Thank you

abbas786

7th Nov 2017, 12:37

hello, first of all my english is not very good because i recentley moved in the uk so i will try my best to explain. 3 weeks ago ive done my class 1 medical in heatrow and evreything was fine also my vision was fine no color blindness no double vison and etc. but at the end they have find a type of stabismus (exophoria) that was over the limits and i never noticed this problem in my life some people call it also "hidden squint". Than the opthometrist at heatrow says that she will send me to a specialist in gatwick, so i went to gatwick and the specialist failed me because he says that my eyes currently are fine becaouse my fusional reserve are very good to prevent Diplopia (double vision) but he didnt passed me because he thinks that i have 10-20 % chance to have double vision at the age of 45-50 when i get old but not confirmed. My heart was in pieces and still it is and he said to me to give up my dream and change my carrier in a such rude way. Being a airliner pilot is my dream from childhood and i have worked alot for achieving my goal and now when i was close to realize my dream then he said to give up my dream in just one sec. This are the worst day of my life. so want to ask you guys is there any possible way to get the certification for class one? Any opinions?
This is what I’ve been working on my whole life, I want to do whatever is possible.

galaxy flyer

8th Nov 2017, 00:17

Not an AME, but generally a failed, technically deferred, medical will result in you be8ng directed to a specialist and return with the specialist’s recommendation to the AME. Perhaps, there is an appeal process in the UK CAA.

421dog

8th Nov 2017, 01:56

I Am an AME and can tell you that, despite having more than +5 or -5 lateral phoria, from an FAA standpoint, as long as the airman doesn't exhibit diplopia on exam, the AME handbook states that the deficiency should be noted in block 60, the certificate should be issued, and the airman informed that the FAA may contact him to request additional ophthalmologic evaluation. My mentor, who has been doing firsts for >30 years tells me he has never had an airman called back to request anything additional, (including those with amblyopia so severe that they were not able to place the line on the scale to establish a degree of eso or exophoria. [the feds just say "enter 9, and note your findings in block 60"])

So, at least on this side of the pond, I think there's still some hope...

Loose rivets

8th Nov 2017, 07:43

Might develop in middle age!? That's outrageous. By then at the rate of change now, I'm confident there'll be surgery to get perfect/instant fusion.

They seem all too willing to end people's dreams with such minor issues. Lose an eye just after getting your licence, and you can carry on for the next 50 years.

I suppose the problem is getting the brain to accept intervention when older since it seems important to get eyes right before the age of 7. While this may be important, it's clearly not an absolute.

I was looking into the eyes of a 70 year old this week who had perfect 'lock on' in both eyes. When young she'd had an eye lying on her cheek while doing whatever it is they do. So, at least 60 year old technology.

abbas786

8th Nov 2017, 10:42

Thankyou so much guys :) btw i know FAA medical is easy to pass with exophoria unless you dont have diolopia.I have talked with a pilot who is a first officier in gulf airline hes flying currently the airbus A320, and he says me that he have exophoria aswell but worse than mine too much over the limits but when he have donr hes medical in italy they didnt count it (exophoria) as a problem.I dont know why CAA is soo Hard to pass and some of their staff are rude asswell like the specialist. My next and final chache is FAA medical but i want to cancel the fail from tge record because they failed me for no reason they don have any proof or guarantee that i can have diplopia later on in my 50s they are insecure

abbas786

8th Nov 2017, 11:11

and one more thing guys the specialist in gatwick have done one test for double vision with a prism glass bar who have 0-25 scale. i have done the test my eye start to giving up little bit this happen to evey one in the test and some people find double vision at the 14-17 scale level but thats normal, but the best thing is that i dont find double vision in any of the scale so than the specialist said my fusional reserve are amazing, but i dont know why he failed me it dosent make any sense on the other hand he is saying my fusional reserve are strong to prevent diplopia, my mind in the way he control my exophorua is amazing my mind keep my eyes pointing straight no one can see the deviation without some ocular machines. and on the other hand he says that maybe i have 10% chance in 100 to lose this ability later on. without any proof and he is insecure aswell. I have seen a specialist in ocular motor yesterday and he disagree completly with what the specialist in gatwick said the chanche of getting double vision according to the ocuaor motor specialist are 0. im so confused

RatherBeFlying

8th Nov 2017, 16:23

amblyopia so severe that they were not able to place the line on the scale to establish a degree of eso or exophoria

That was me in my early thirties. The AME noted that I would be flaring late and it did take considerable extra time to get my landings right.

Then a new optometrist prescribed prisms. I almost fell down the stairs leaving his office with the new glasses. I then made a perfect landing 3' above the runway.

Lovely landings ever since.

Make very sure your optical prescription includes prisms.

The tendency without corrective prisms is to suppress one eye which I do working close up.

Even with prisms you may unconsciously tilt your head.

It amazes me that any CAA would be so obdurate with an easily correctable condition.

421dog

8th Nov 2017, 22:49

Moi aussi..

galaxy flyer

9th Nov 2017, 20:12

They do call it the “Campaign Against Aviation”. Remember, if the flunk everyone with the slightest problem, they’ll never have explain themselves.

Sammul

16th Nov 2017, 08:52

Hey Guys,

My first post here - nice to be here!

I’m 27 and just starting out in aviation. I’m heading to flight school next year and want to heard for the airlines. Went to get my initial Aviation Medical Class 1 and flew through except for the EYES. I have a number of issues with my eyes but the glasses nearly solve them all. My vision score is 6/6 for both eyes, 6/6 for my right eye, BUT 6/9 for left eye (that’s WITH glasses on). This is marginal and right on the borderline. A fail is anything worse than 6/9 in either singular eye. My eyes have generally settled now that I am 27 years old.

Should I go through my flight training (and associated massive student loan) when my eyes are this level now? I will pass this Medical now but I am worried that as the years go by, just a small degeneration could get me a failed medcial anytime in the future. Then I’d be out of a job.

I’d love to hear any opinions, ideas or stories...

Deep and fast

1st Dec 2017, 23:16

Just a quick post about essilor, I have tried 2 types of essilor and 3 of specsavers varifocals and all were utterly useless. Im trying the last essilor option next week but if this proves to be no good I'll be going back to my trusty Hoya lens.
Problems have all been down to narrow near vision field and difficulty in transitional areas.

xxtoni

7th Dec 2017, 09:01

Hello everyone,

A few days ago I spoke with an eye doctor I happen to be friends with and he told me that due to some change in regulation in my country I won't be able to renew my medical in a few years due to my strabismus.

I checked with the authorities and sure enough they confirmed it. I went there personally and told them that there was no change in my condition and that I already have been flying and everything but they told me point blank nothing they can do about it.

I have been doing a lot of research and I'd like to know what the situation in other countries is ?

For me Germany would be ideal because I travel there often so it's convenient but if not Germany then pretty much anywhere in Europe works.

I hear it might be easiest to get it done in the UK.

Any advice on this matter, experience with whom I should talk ? I don't wanna make the trip to the UK just to be told that it's not possible.

Thanks in advance!

45 South

12th Dec 2017, 07:07

In the end its going to be your call:

Will you forever regret not "going for it"?

Will you forever regret the "wasted $" if you go for it and loose your medical after spending $100,000-00 and only earning $5-00 in return?

Also, remember for the span of your flying career: are you going to worry about not passing your next medical or will it not bother you? Even when you have a family to support and a mortgage too perhaps.?

As I said it is your call which largely depends on how you relate to what may happen in several years time.

One final thought, which I can't answer is "do some potential employers prefer to take on pilots with no medical endorsements on their licenses" i.e. "spectacles must be worn" endorsed on your medica, may not help your job prospects?

Good luck with the decision making.

RatherBeFlying

12th Dec 2017, 16:49

I would consider getting the initial done while you can get it as the standards tend to be more stringent for initials than renewals.

An NZ AME will know better.

bigtete

4th Feb 2018, 23:44

Hello everybody,

I spend my initial class 1 visit in two weeks at AMS Gatwick (central london).

I have a small question, I do not wear glasses but in case I do not arrive at the required acuity without correction, the CAA optician has different lenses for measured acuity with correction?

thank you in advance

Piper.Classique

5th Feb 2018, 19:42

How about a quick trip to your favourite opticians first? Prior preparation prevents p poor performance....

Radgirl

6th Feb 2018, 14:41

The problem with that is many opticians get little or nothing from eye examinations but make their money from selling glasses. If you just need minimal correction for reading you will be sold glasses and have to declare and then have the hassle of the limitation

My understanding was that if you just need correction found out at the AME medical they put the limitation on the certificate and you have to go and buy the glasses.....

421dog

6th Feb 2018, 16:54

Over here, if you turn up without corrective lenses and it turns out that you need them to meet the standards, we don't generally supply them. My machine does not provide correction capability, and if you need more than 1.75 diopters for near or intermediate vision, (which happens to be the power of my cheaters, which I find myself needing to lend to a surprising number of airmen who turn up without their own), you're gonna need to go and get some poste-haste, or you're gonna get deferred.
That being said, if you show up wearing glasses, and can pass the tests without using them, there's no rule that says I have to put a limitation on your medical.

Krautwald

13th Feb 2018, 08:03

Hi there, I am sure some of you have had corrective laser surgery. I have no medical indication for this since my myopia is within limits (-2,75). I have thought about it none the less.

One thing that is really under-discussed is how long the correction actually lasts. I have read about people who had 4-5 good years and after that: back to spectacleville. And by that, I do not mean the usual 40+ nosetip-reading-glasses, but back to myopia.

I cannot really understand this because if you, say, have -3 and get it corrected to a perfect 0,0. And after 5 years you are back to, say. -2. Does this mean that without the surgery, you would have been at -5? Or is the process of detoriating eyesight speeded up/altered by the surgery for some? For honestly I do not know merely nearsighted (no other conditions) people whose adult eye has gone several dpt. down in a few years, but I do read about several people with LASIK going from 0,0 to several dpt after inital improvement. And if there is a very real possibility to have only an improvement for some years, and then back to glasses, I don´t think it´s worth the money then, is it?

Second question, if you go back to several dpt, can you still go back to contacts? Or would that be problematic re the "flap"? That scenario would be even worse: spend upwards of 5000 GBP (no, I would never choose the cheapo option!), have 4 good years, then be myopic again but not being able to use contacts = double bugger.

I hope some of you will share what they know about how well such a correction lasts! Thanks :)

shantanubdas2002

3rd Mar 2018, 08:21

In around 2 years time I plan to do my initial medical exam before I start pilot training.

However, from my recent eye test results, I have -0.5 dioptres myopia, 1.75 dioptres astigmatism at 180 degree angle. Will that stop me from getting a class one medical? Because things may worsen overtime. And yes, I do wear glasses for correction (and I assume they can correct to 6/6 or 20/20). Any advice? Are the results too harsh for a class one medical?

Thanks

abbas786

6th Mar 2018, 16:11

Hello guys, ive moved recently in uk to do my atpl, but failed my class 1 due to eye issue (Exophoria), 3-4 months ago. Becoming an airline pilot was my dream since childhood and failing the medical and knowing that i cannot become a commercial pilot is the worse thing ever. Evreything with my eyes is fine i have: full field of vision, no astigmatism,no cornea abnormality, Im myopic but whitnin the limits. Than they told me that i have exophoria outside the limits. I have 20 diopters from far and 35 from near but i dont have double vision or eye fatigue, i even dont know all my life that i had this problem and any of my opticians never informed me about this.

The CAA suggested me to visit their specialist wich ive done he was surprised with my fusional reserves he told me that my fusional reserves are too strong that i dind get diplopia even with 30 prism base out (Prism fusion test) but he failed anyways me because he thinks that there is 20% chance that i can get double vision in later years. I was devastated and still iam. ive seen different opthalmologist, optometrist and etc All of them disagree with the decision of the CAA consultant becuase my fusional reserves are too strong and the chance of getting diplopia in future is ZERO.

The JAR says if i exceed the phoria limits but i have enough fusional reserves to prevent diplopia or asthenopia a fitness assesment should be considered for class 1. So than I have appealed to the CAA for secondary review but i dont know if that will be helpful.

I can have a faa class 1 and when i knowed that i can get a FAA class 1 i was very happy but then i found that a FAA class 1 will not be helpfull unless i can work in the USA.

So now i have few question to evreyone in this forum who are very helpful.

1. Is the FAA Atpl and medical valid in other countreys like middle east or etc ?
2. Can i re do the EASA class 1 medical anywhere elese in europe ?
3. is there any possible way to fly as pilot in airlines with this problem Exophoria ?

i dont want to give up on my dream. Sorry for my bad english :P

Hagop

6th Mar 2018, 21:49

Hey,

Sorry to hear about your condition, such conditions are really heartbreaking. I don't have any idea about Exophoria and how critical it could get in the coming years but I'll answer your other 2 questions.

1) Yes, an FAA ATPL is acceptable in the Middle East but note that you will need at least 1,500 hours of turbo-prop or even turbine time to land an interview with one of the Middle Eastern giants. The FAA CPL/IR won't land you an airline job directly, you have to climb the ladder. As for the medical, you have to double check with the airline you might be applying to as each airline has its own medical standards or follows a specific CAA's standards.

2)If you want a UK issued Class 1 medical, the only option for an "initial" medical is at one of the 4 Aero Medical Centers in the UK if I'm not mistaken. I don't know about other EASA medicals outside the UK.

abbas786

7th Mar 2018, 00:51

Hagop, Thankyou sir for the answer really helpful :)

exophoria is occular muscle balance problem you can notice it when fusion is broken the eye tend to diverge and as far as i know 70% of the people in this world have this problem especially if they are myopic. But mine exophoria is outside the limits but i dont have double vision (wich is the risk) because of "strong fusional reserves". The JAR says something like, if the fusional reserves are enough to prevent Double vision a fit assesment may be considered.

the CAA eye consultant didnt considered me fit because he was saying that according to him there is a 20% chance that i will get double vision in the future when i will get old. Then after the faliure went to different opticians, opthalmologist they all disagree that i will get double vision because i have a very strong fusional reserves.

now i dont know which way should i chose, FAA or Appeal to the CAA or etc.

hope ill get some more answers :)

B2N2

7th Mar 2018, 01:12

Appeal to the CAA.
You can get your FAA license and certificates however: even if it is accepted you need to do a medical at your future employer.
https://jobs.flightglobal.com/jobs/first-officer/china/
And Chinese Medicals have been nicknamed “astronaut Medicals” for being so intensive.
Do not simply assume you’ll qualify.

RatherBeFlying

7th Mar 2018, 01:40

abbas786

7th Mar 2018, 11:58

I got a Transport Canada Class I some four decades ago with what has recently been diagnosed as a "4th optic nerve palsy" by an orthoptist.

Prisms do the job along with a subconscious head tilt.

Many people with exophoria suppress one eye in the absence of a prismatic correction.

Thankyou very much Sir for the information, seems like the canadian class 1 medical is more relaxed in eyesight than EASA ?

421dog

7th Mar 2018, 17:07

abbas786

7th Mar 2018, 19:20

From an FAA standpoint, exceeding lateral phoria limits without diplopia results in an immediate issuance of the certificate (no deferral) with the caveat that the Administrator may contact the airman and request additional testing.
That seems to almost never happen.

Thankyouu very much sir for the info. FAA class 1 is my next target because i will move to US for my CPL-ATPL training. :) I hope EASA will put some regulations like the FAA for Phorias maybe in the future who knows. :rolleyes:

Loose rivets

7th Mar 2018, 21:21

Make sure your visa specifically allows this.

B2N2

8th Mar 2018, 11:04

I got a Transport Canada Class I some four decades ago .

That’s 40 years with my math skills.
No doubt requirements have changed.
And you shouldn’t go medical chasing across the planet.
Appeal with the CAA.
If you’re not eligible to immigrate to Canada or the USA their Medical will not do you any good.

abbas786

9th Mar 2018, 20:33

That’s 40 years with my math skills.
No doubt requirements have changed.
And you shouldn’t go medical chasing across the planet.
Appeal with the CAA.
If you’re not eligible to immigrate to Canada or the USA their Medical will not do you any good.

Sure sir i have already appealed, im waiting for a response.

Seanlister1

13th Apr 2018, 10:33

Good Morning gents and ladies,

I'm well aware that I needed a copy of my prescription for my initial class 1 as I wear glasses for everyday use. I know my prescription is under 2 dioptres but the one thing that's confusing me is the distant visiual activity, that needs to be 6/9 or better, I have pasted a link to a photo of my prescription hopefully this will help. I'm just wanting to make sure I'm all set before I pay for the initial class 1 as I'll have to travel from Newcastle.

Thanks in advance
Sean

Jimmy The Big Greek

13th Apr 2018, 20:04

no worries. The diopters are for the glasses (you are within limits) and the 6/9 (0.7) is for the eye chart. But you need with both eyes 6/6 and 6/9 with each eye

Seanlister1

14th Apr 2018, 09:38

Okay thank you, my eyes corrected are both 6/5 6/5 however it doesn't state what my binocular vision is

twa320

24th Apr 2018, 22:04

Here's a question for those who have already had the lasik procedure. Now that you can see distant objects better, do you now find it difficult to read instruments and plates in the cockpit? If so, how do you cope with this?

I can still pass the FAA exam, but admit that my distant vision could use some help at night when I am tired. My close vision is okay for now, although readers help. My worry is, if I get my distant vision permanently fixed by Lasik will I lose my ability to see inside the cockpit without wearing bifocals? What's the fix? What is your experience/suggestions for this problem considering your "20/20 hindsight"?

localflighteast

26th Apr 2018, 18:15

2 years post lasik. 20/20 distance vision now.
Some issues with reading close stuff, more likely related to my age (over 40) than the actual surgery as my husband is suffering from the same. :)

I have no regrets

hugh flung_dung

27th Apr 2018, 08:47

Here's a question for those who have already had the lasik procedure. Now that you can see distant objects better, do you now find it difficult to read instruments and plates in the cockpit? If so, how do you cope with this?
I went for CLE a few years ago and would recommend it over LASIK unless you are young (sub-40) and still have many years of being able to accommodate ahead of you. I chose lenses that slightly over-corrected distance (about +0.25, IIRC) so my distance vision is excellent and I can read most things without specs, but for comfort or in low light I use half moon +1.25s. The op was straightforward and vision was spectacular after a couple of days (especially focusing on lights at night). There was a minor hiccup a few weeks after one eye was done (macular oedema) but this was quickly fixed.

HFD

Carbon Bootprint

28th Apr 2018, 01:05

Interesting post, HFD. Would you mind expanding on what the procedure involves, and what type of prequalifications might be applied? Thanks.

hugh flung_dung

28th Apr 2018, 07:48

The procedure is identical to cataract surgery, which is supposedly the most frequently performed surgery, and replaces the natural lens with a plastic one. Because a plastic lens is rigid there is no ability to change its focal length (accommodation), but natural lenses lose this ability around age 40 so this would only be a loss for a youngster. There are lenses which attempt to accommodate by having springs around the outside, so that they can be moved slightly forwards and backwards by the ciliary muscle, but these seem to give variable results and (I think) are not permitted for pilots - it's a similar story for multi-focal lenses. It's also possible to have one eye set-up for distance and one for reading ("mono vision"), but not for pilots.
One benefit of CLE is that you won't get cataracts!
I had a gap between the two operations and was surprised at how bright everything looked with the new lens, and also how the natural lens gave everything a slight yellow tinge compared to the plastic lens. If I was doing it again I think I would opt for a slight over-correction in one eye (but less than max permissible for aircrew) to slightly improve near vision.
There's loads of info on the web.

HFD

abbas786

29th Apr 2018, 13:49

6-7 months ago i failed my initial medical due to a occular muscle imbalance (exophoria). Than i been deffered to a CAA specialist in Gatwick he failed me as well and he told me that is impossible that i will get a class 1 in a rude way and he told me to change my career as well. I was destroyed, my dream was shattered, but i didnt give up. I have than appealed to the CAA for a secondary review but it didnt get any response instantly after 2 months my AME said that my appeal is still in process but i can get a class 2 medical if i want. Than i got my class 2, and my ame said that is impossible that i will get a class 1 (according to him), but my goal was flying commercially, i didnt give up anyways. Today after 5 months i got the letter from the CAA stating that i dont have double vision with the occular muscle imbalance, im outside the limits but the JAR-FCL says if the applicant have good amount of fuaional reserves to prevent diplopia a fit assessment should be considered by the AMS, so they assesed me fit for a unrestricted class 1.

The purpose of this post is that if someone have a eyesight problem like mine or a different one, Dont give up. if you are sure that you dont have double vision, elaborate your case well with a opthalmologist or alone as well if you can, like i did, and appeal to the CAA, they are very kind and helpful. :)

Obviosuly evrey case is different and success with the appeal is not guaranted but the thing is if you dont give up, you will find your way. :)

Sorry for my bad english btw :}

Carbon Bootprint

29th Apr 2018, 18:46

macdo

15th May 2018, 21:47

HFD,

Very grateful for your post, sir. I currently have multi focal contacts and am looking into other options. I’m not the young buck I used to be so the age issues you mention should not be much of a problem. Your post has inspired me to contact a specialist in my area to learn more. Thanks!
Hi, just to add this health warning. My wife had CLE some years ago when it was very new in the UK. She had dreadful vision and was unsuitable for laser treatment. The operation was a complete success and she is able to everything without glasses, it was in her opinion a miracle. But, the one thing she struggles with is night driving due to some elements of glare from oncoming headlights. Not a big issue for her, but I don't imagine a licensing authority would give her a Class 1. I'm certainly going to have the same procedure, once I'm retired!

sky1223g

2nd Jun 2018, 01:42

Dear all,
Since January this year, CAA suspended one of the pilots in the UK from flying, due to HIV medical condition. This decision was appealed by the pilot and CAA restricted the Class one medical to Multi-crew operation only.

Long story short, I was unfit for Class one medical two years ago due to Amblyopia, my vision was 6/6 in the right and 6/18 at the time for the left eye. Over the last two years my weaker left eye acuity has improved to 6/9. Borderline for passing the Class one. I'm hoping to go for an appeal and possible an reassessment.

CAA declared there will be a medical restriction review since the HIV incident. Would anyone could shed some light on the progress of the review? Will it include visual acuity and lastly any advice on my situation? Whether I should contact my AME for opinions on the appeal or go for another eye test to be sure that I'm able to pass the Class one initial again ?

I hope I have made clear on the points that I'm making, if there's anything that it's unclear, please let me know and thanks for reading!

miller745

21st Jun 2018, 11:17

Folks, does anyone know if the eye test result is borderline must the UPPER finding be used, or can the LOWER finding be used?

I had a test today by my local optician, he gave me a prescription with 2.00 CYL correction for both eyes. (currently left eye is 2.25 and unfit for class 1)
Because when he went 0.25 higher, I was asking for it to be reduced and when he went 0.25 lower, I was asking for it to be increased. He said even though I am borderline, legally he can give me the 2.00CYL prescription.
But is this the same for the CAA?
Wish I could send this result down to heathrow medical instead of sending myself for a retest..

errorman

20th Jul 2018, 14:27

Sooner or later many pilots eyes will develop cataracts and need surgical treatment. However, this is not straightforward and CAA rules prohibit many currently available types of lens implants (IOLs)
I have been trying to make sense of this important and complex topic. Although I am not an expert, I have tried to set out the current position as follows. Input from others would be much appreciated.
Cataract is cloudiness that develops in the eye's lens. It can be treated by surgical removal and replacement with an artificial lens known as an IOL (Intraocular Lens).
There are three basic types of IOL: Monofocal, Mulitfocal and Accommodative.

Monofocals (the only kind provided by the NHS) are simple lenses of single focal length that must be augmented by spectacles to provide a sharp image over the full depth of visual field. Their use is not recommended by the CAA.

Multifocals are (in layman's terms) something like varifocal specs that are implanted and can provide (at least) two foci. For some individuals this can provide spectacle-free vision, although some 'downsides' are known to exist. These can include a lack of sharpness at some visual distances and disturbances such as a 'halo' effect. There are others too. Their use is specifically forbidden by the CAA for pilots.

Accommodatives aim to provide continuously adjustable focus by bending and/or moving the lens along the visual axis. However, they seem to work much better for some individuals than for others, and it is said, can produce spec-free vision. The CAA approves their use. Unfortunately, it seems that many of the currently available Accommodative IOLs don't work as well as had been hoped. Indeed, the Bauch+Lomb 'Crystalens' Accommodative Lens appears to have been withdrawn by it's manufacturer.

This leaves any pilot who wants spectacle-free vision, following cataract surgery in a bit of a jam. I have tried to get further guidance from the CAA but they haven't proved too helpful so far. I have asked for a meeting with a CAA registered 'Consultant Aviation Opthalmology Advisor'.

There is a glimpse of a hope for the future. Developments in design of both Multifocal and Accommodative lenses seem to be addressing shortcomings of existing IOLs. They are starting to become available now but as yet guidance from the CAA has not been updated to allow their use. It seems that the FAA do now allow use of modern Multifocals if the resultant visual performance meets existing requirements.

How many of us in the pilot community are affected? Perhaps if enough of us register our concern the CAA will feel moved to help.

Chak

23rd Jul 2018, 20:53

Hey all, this is my first post on PPRuNe after being a lurker with no account for nearly half a year.

I had my initial class 1 medical examination today and it did not go as well as I was hoping. We went through my medical history and I had anemia, iron deficiency and hemoglobin deficiency as a child. These were between the ages of 2 and 8, so 6 years of my life. In the space of 11 years, there has been no sign of anemia and the deficiencies. However, the AME would like me to get a full blood test with the analysis and I need to see a specialist regarding a hemoglobin test. However, this is currently looking positive as there were no signs of the medical problems during my blood test performed on the day.

Now the real problem is, although I wear glasses, and I know that since my first optician's eye test that my eyesight is and has been greater than 20/20, I have a slight issue with my hyperphoria. When the optometrist was performing my eye test for the Class 1 Medical, my hyperphoria (vertical eye separation) was 4.0 diopters and the maximum to pass is 2.0 diopters, so essentially I didn't pass the eye test, to say this is really disappointing is an understatement as I would've never expected this to be a problem. I spoke to the optometrist regarding this and I can appeal this, and they recommended I do.

Then I went back to speak to the AME, my next step is to complete the hemoglobin and blood test and send the results to the AME, and if those come back as a pass, I can make the appeal for my class 1 medical. Now I have never had double vision and I notice no difference between both eyes regarding the vertical difference. I don't want to give up on my goal to become a commercial airline pilot, however, I don't want to go through the whole training process and the expense to have a restriction on my class 1 medical that airlines won't accept. When I was speaking to the AME the talk about settling in for a class 2 did come up, but I don't want to throw in the towel, I was told there is a possibility of still getting a class 1 medical, it may require more tests, there was even talk on a possible option where I could continue flying and if I feel comfortable and the CAA agree (I'm sure there is more to it that I don't know as of yet) I may still be issued my class 1. I currently have 8 flying hours and the money I've spent already is not a issue as I've enjoyed every second of it.

I'm currently in a tricky situation, I searched up a little about hyperphoria and the CAA Class 1 but there's not much to it regarding a post on PPRuNe from 2005 and this from the CAA Guidance, where the 4 dioptres are at 6 meters.

h) HeterophoriaApplicants with a heterophoria (imbalance of the ocular muscles) exceeding:
(1) At 6 metres:
2.0 prism dioptres in hyperphoria,
10.0 prism dioptres in esophoria,
8.0 prism dioptres in exophoria;
and
(2) At 33 centimetres:
1.0 prism dioptre in hyperphoria,
8.0 prism dioptres in esophoria,
12.0 prism dioptres in exophoria
should be assessed as unfit. The applicant should be reviewed by an ophthalmologist and if the fusional reserves are sufficient to prevent asthenopia and diplopia a fit assessment may be considered.

Would I have a chance of receiving my class 1 medical, or am I just wasting my time?

Thanks,
Chak.

LandingGear60

23rd Jul 2018, 21:24

@Chak I can't give any information regarding the condition, but I'm sure another Ppruner or even an AME will respond soon on that. What I can say is that, don't give up hope just yet. I've read loads of threads on here and around the web of people failing the initial medical due to exceeding one of the regulations only to appeal and be signed off as fit to fly. I believe the guidelines say that some discretion can be made on a case-by-case basis by the CAA upon appeal. They may likely look at your situation, and with further tests, deem you fit too.You're really not going to know until you proceed with the appeal, so don't loose hope yet. I feel for you when reading this as I was just as nervous for my vision in my initial last month. Good luck and keep us updated!

Chak

24th Jul 2018, 14:00

@CJS12 Thank you for your advice, I really appreciate it. I'm trying not to lose hope yet, I'm doing better than I was yesterday and have already started to make a progression on the report the AME requires and booking in a blood test. Once again, thank you! Once I am ready for the appeal I will post an update.

ianM737

1st Aug 2018, 09:54

Hi Guys, I recently did the Ishihara and Lantern test and failed both miserably. Booked in to do the CAD test in Heathrow next week.

Has anyone done the CAD test recently at Heathrow? Or anyone failed the Ishihara and Lantern test but passed the CAD?

Cheers!

abbas786

28th Aug 2018, 15:15

Chak

28th Aug 2018, 22:41

Good news is that my blood test came back normal, no abnormalities in my blood, no traces of anemia or iron deficiency. The report is ready to be picked up tomorrow and I will be sending that to the AME as soon as possible. On track so far.

Hey i was in the same situation as yours, failed the medical due to the phoria. I have 3 diopters of hyperphoria the limit is 2, and on top of that i have 35 diopters of exophoria at near (the limit for near is 12) and 20 at distance (the limit for distance is 8). So as you can see im wayyyyyy out the limits, but i appealed to the CAA for a secondary review. After 6 months i got a letter from the CAA stating that im fit to fly because i have a strong prism fusion range so i dont have double vision (wich is the risk), the fresh class 1 medical was in the same letter btw.

So if you dont have double vision my advice is that you should elaborate your case well and than appeal to the CAA. They are flexible with phorias if you dont have double vision.

Hey Abbas,

This was a reply I was hoping for, someone who was in a near enough exact position as me, alongside making an appeal/review and everything working out fine in the end. 6 months is a long time to wait for the reply, but the wait was definitely worth the good news. I'm hoping to send the required reports which were asked by my AME, and hopefully, we get the secondary review process started.

Thanks.

abbas786

1st Sep 2018, 12:28

Good news is that my blood test came back normal, no abnormalities in my blood, no traces of anemia or iron deficiency. The report is ready to be picked up tomorrow and I will be sending that to the AME as soon as possible. On track so far.

Hey Abbas,

This was a reply I was hoping for, someone who was in a near enough exact position as me, alongside making an appeal/review and everything working out fine in the end. 6 months is a long time to wait for the reply, but the wait was definitely worth the good news. I'm hoping to send the required reports which were asked by my AME, and hopefully, we get the secondary review process started.

Thanks.

Glad that my response was helpful. As for me i was in even worse condition than yours, my AME told me that according to him gaining a class 1 was impossible for me and the best thing to do was changing career. I was destroyed that day but ive promised to my self that i will not give up, because becoming an airline pilot was my dream since childhood. And yess, the day when i recieved the medical that day i realized that nothing is impossible, if you work hard for something, you will achieve it.

Best of luck with the appeal.

actionjawa

15th Sep 2018, 15:59

Hello pprune, quick query as the only information i can find on this is Part Med.

With regards to the following ...

AMC1 MED.B.070 d,(5)

If the refractive error is +3.0 to +5.0 or –3.0 to –6.0 dioptres, there is astigmatism or anisometropia of more than 2 dioptres but less than 3 dioptres, a review should be undertaken 5 yearly by an eye specialist.

I've had my Class 1 issued to me 3 years ago by the UK CAA, I have recently transferred it over to the IAA... my only limitation was a VDL restriction however when the IAA reviewed it they decided to apply the RXO restriction as well.

My astigmatism is 2.0 dioptres, surely according the wording above I shouldn't have the RXO limitation?

Shreyas

1st Oct 2018, 06:59

I am enrolled in cadet program and going to do my CPL training in Cae USA. But I am going to convert my licenses and fly in my country. So basically my main concern is will I get Faa class 1 with :
Vision without glasses RE 6/9 LE 6/9
Correctable vision : RE 6/9p LE 6/6 BOTH 6/6

please help in getting coercet information because I am going to sign a bond with a huge amount. Also I can’t get back my money once it’s gone.

I am not going to fly in USA commercially.

Dr Jekyll

3rd Oct 2018, 18:49

Very interesting talk about laser eye surgery at White Waltham club last night. Particularly a technique called 'blended vision' whereby you have one eye set to 6/6 distance vision, but a bit of short sight in the other to remove the need for reading glasses in middle age. The argument was that it's good for pilots because you don't have the intermediate distance issue of bifocals or the problem with seeing instruments above the windscreen. One professional pilot there who is also an AME has been given 6/9 uncorrected distance vision in one eye and 6/5 in the other, but can also read small print with her 'short' eye without correction so has an unrestricted medical in her late 50s. All sounded quite encouraging.

phdresearcher

8th Nov 2018, 06:37

In 1998 I completed so much flight training and then I failed my class I medical.

I understand now that the medical standard for eyesight has been relaxed a little.

The CAA advocate safety but how can it not be OK one year but then OK the next?

Just curious

blue up

8th Nov 2018, 14:30

Best to ask them. 0330 022 1500

BristolScout

8th Nov 2018, 17:58

I recently had an eye exam with one of the laser outfits who said they could restore glasses-free sight by refractive lens exchange - same procedure as for cataracts but inserting a multifocal lens. I checked EASA FCL-Med and the procedure is completely forbidden. As a retired pilot still practising as a part-time instructor, it's not the end of the world for me but it might be relevant to younger colleagues. I know that our now defunct CAA Medical Department was notoriously conservative with 'new' eye stuff such as contact lenses and varifocals but it does seem to me that allowing a clear lens for cataracts but not a clever one for sight correction is slightly bizarre. I'd be interested to know if anyone else has been down this route.

Pinguin_Furtif

6th Dec 2018, 12:47

Hi all,

I took a class 1 initial application test in France, which is more restrictive regarding the vision than the EASA's requirements and got rejected. As asked by the french AME, I had a orthoptic assessment done :

My orthoptic assessment says :

Visual acuity : (Refractive test under cycloplegia)
Right Eye : 10/10 with +2.0 dioptres P
Left Eye : 10/10 with +4.5 (-1.0 at 175°) dioptres P

LAF (I don't know what this means so this might be a french acronym) :
Right Eye : Anterior segment with no fluo- particularity
Left Eye : Anterior segment with no fluo- particularity

Tension :
ODG Normal

Optic Fundus :
Right Eye : Optic fundus and peripheria examination with Goldmann's 3 Mirrors glass
Left Eye : Optic fundus and peripheria examination with Goldmann's 3 Mirrors glass

Am I compliant with the EASA Part Med initial application requirements or is the dream over ?

Many thanks :)

double_barrel

4th Jan 2019, 13:31

Any recent experience with reactive progressives?

I am using progressive lenses which work really well for me. For glare I am using flip-up polarising lenses - also works really well for me with steam dials. But I realise that polarizing will not work with modern displays, and flip-ups are a PITA. Does anyone have experience/advice on reactive lenses inside aircraft in combination with progressives ? I understand that lens quality is critical for good results with progressives. This has been discussed here in the past, but not recently as far as I can see.

Thanks

Piper.Classique

4th Jan 2019, 19:49

I've found they only work in a really bright interior. Depends what you fly, but unless there is a lot of natural light they don't go dark. Also depends what the windscreen material is.... Buy a cheap pair and try it, maybe.

Andreas97

10th Jan 2019, 13:13

Hello

I have a questiom about the Medical class 1 vision related.

I have been to the examinator and he could not give me the medical class 1 beacause of my vision.

Left eye +5,5 cyl 0,75 axis 33,0
Right eye +1,75

strabisme
5/6m
eso 16
hyper 4

30-50cm
eso 4
hyper 2

So im a bit over what is expected and wonder if anyone have got this approved before and how ?

CPT3B

14th Jan 2019, 18:31

I am due to start my PPL in a few months and I have a class 1 medical initial booked in a couple of weeks time.

I recently visited an opticians and they discovered a small tear in the retina inside my right eye. Just got back from a specialist and they have referred me to see a consultant. The hole may not need attention yet but the consultant will know better whether or not it requires laser correction.

So now I have an issue. Does the AME in my class 1 medical check the inside of my eyes? Will this create an issue for me passing my medical? I've heard it is serious if you fail a medical as it does not look good to future employers.

I do have 20/20 (6/6) vision, no colour blindness or any issues with my eyesight apart from requiring glasses/contact lenses.

Even if I pass my medical and will need laseer correction, will I need to declare this and book a check up with an AME?

Thank you for any advice!

toptobottom

24th Jun 2019, 17:22

Checking the CAA website recently, I noticed that its position on multi-focal lens implants has relaxed. Whereas they were simply not approved before, now they are 'not recommended' (they're still not approved by EASA).

Has anyone had the procedure and survived the post-op exam? How are the potential post-op issues around contrast and glare assessed?

divetosavemylife

4th Jul 2019, 13:24

Hi guys,
I think I tried to post a thread on this but it got deleted - my bad, mods, anxiety level through the roof.

Situation:
I just did my Class 1 Medicals for New Zealand (initial) yesterday. Everything seems to be OK, my eyesight was cleared, I have 6/6 corrected, no issues there. I did, however, have surgery to correct a lazy eye when I was 3 years old, and yes I did declare that on my form. Since then I have not any issues whatsoever with my eyesight, been driving fine and even playing sports to a semi-professional level, competing like crazy as well and living my life normally.

The issue:
NZ Class 1 initials are followed by a special eye exam. In this exam, they detected an exotropia which I have until today just not paid much attention to because of how little it has affected my life. The doctor said that it would have an angle of deviation a little more than what is required, so he's sent me to see an orthoptist as he didn't have the necessary equipment to do what he had to - in this case, he's asked me to do a Fusional Reserve Test and a BSV test.

The questions:

1. Has anyone had this happen to them?
2. What actually happens in these tests?
3. Is this likely to affect my ability to get a Class 1?

Thanks in advance guys, appreciate it lots.

vikdream

13th Jul 2019, 20:39

Hi all,

I am an A320 pilot thinking about LASIK surgery. I have both myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism, around 2,5 in each eye for each. My prescription has been stable for the last 3-4 years (I am around 30 years old).

Now, has anyone undergone surgery while flying commercialy? AME has advided around a 3-4 week period with your medical taken away from you, but has encouraged me to go for it. Obviously I would be a life-changing procedure for me and I cannot wait to get rid of my glasses.

Any advice? From pilot who have done it or even doctors who can help....

Thank you

421dog

13th Jul 2019, 21:14

In FAA land, making a “Short” and a “Long” eye to let you function without lenses is a Nono.
if you are good at distance, keep doing what you are, because you’re gonna need glasses anyway. If Far vision and Astigmatism is the primary problem, you could consider LASIK, but it might be a better idea to wait until
youre 40 or so, so that your lens stops changing before you make
an irrevocable alteration to your corneas.

kick the tires

15th Jul 2019, 17:04

I asked my AME a few years ago for advice on this. He explained that your eyesight recovers 90% in 2 days and the following 10% can take up a year. he said the UK CAA would not allow you to fly for that year! Things might have changed but best advice is to seek opinion direct from your Authority.

Nightstop

15th Jul 2019, 17:25

I went to Specsavers UK and mentioned that I was interested in LASIK surgery. The Optometrist said DON’T, she explained that she, and most of her optometrist course colleagues at Uni, had LASIK and now she can’t drive at night due “star burst” vision.

asavov

23rd Jul 2019, 16:23

Hello everyone,

I've received my class 1 medical in May. I should start my integrated training in 30 days. Last month however I noticed I've been blessed with tinnitus out of the blue. 2 weeks after, I went to an airshow and while looking at the strip, I noticed the following thing in my central vision:

youtu.be/wPjHOkSWvRM

Bright sun and lots of heat sound like the trigger. I've experienced the same thing a month later while visiting the same region and under the same conditions. I am a bit baffled on what to do here. I've noticed that I also have the blue field entoptic phenomenon plus a few floaters.
My eyes, according to the two class 1 exams I've taken are fine, but this is a bad state to be in since flying consists mainly of blue sky and bright light all day every day, thus I am unsure if I should drop the idea, since this can be a possible safety issue. Any ideas on how to move forward would be greatly appreciated as I have 20 days before I have to sign my contract.

RatherBeFlying

24th Jul 2019, 13:59

Dr Google has some information on Visual Snow. It seems to be a neuro ophthalmic disorder and like tinnitus you have to learn how to live with it.

asavov

24th Jul 2019, 16:21

Living with it is fine, but what about working? I can go to the AME and say - I think I have Visual Snow - any idea on what happens next?

RatherBeFlying

25th Jul 2019, 14:48

For rare conditions, it totally depends on your national CAA - could be anything between allowable and permanent denial.

In the US, pilot unions and associations have expertise to help members work through aeromedical issues. Possibly you could take out a membership in AOPA and then contact their aeromedical people.

Newbie747

30th Jul 2019, 14:24

Aspiring Pilot - Seeking Class 1 & 2 Medical advise before commencing training.

Hi, I hope everyone is doing fantastic and awesome.

So, I am currently 22 years of age and I am an undergraduate student. I was hoping to embark on my training throughout the modular route over the next year or so.

However before doing so, I was hoping to get an input from anyone out there who may be able to offer any advise in regards to the following concern I am having. This concern of mine has simply put my pursuit into the aviation industry to a halt for almost a year now.

The concern I am having is with my my vision, as the vision in both of my eyes does not qualify for 20/20 vision. My right eye is 20/20 but not quite 20/15. My left eye is noted to be 20/40. This cannot be corrected. I have been to the local SpecSavers store here in UK for an eye test, and have been advised that my vision condition is called Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) and cannot be corrected. However I am still able to see everything clearly at almost most reasonable distances. I have been to a specialist here in the UK for a consultation and they have confirmed that my vision in my left eye cannot be corrected with any form of aid. However they said there may be a chance with vision therapy NOT surgery, but there is small margin of success. However this is significantly costly and wanted to see if anyone else has ever had to face anything like this.

I have been advised to just go and take the class 1 Medical exam and see what happens but I thought I'd get ahead of any surprises which may come my way.

I will appreciate any advise, experiences or inputs shared.

Thank you for viewing my post, I appreciate it very much.

## Also Please forgive me if this post was slightly extensive.

abbas786

8th Aug 2019, 19:48

divetosavemylife

I was in a kind of similar issue as yours when inwent for my UK CAA medical, the thing was that they fount that i had a latent squint in my eye wich i wasn't aware of. They sent me to an opthalmologist who failed me because my eye deviation was too large and he tought that when i will be 50 years old there will be a 20% chance that i will start to develop symptoms of Double Vision (Wich is the risk with the squint) but at the moment i nevere experienced double vision in my life and according to UK CAA regulations if i didn't had double vision i should have passed my class 1 even if i was over the limits as long as you don't see double tht should not be a problem.

I appealed straight after the wrong decision of the Opthalmologist and i got my medical 6 month later.

So you will be fine too don't lose hope as far as i know new zeland class 1 medical standards are pretty much the same to the uk caa in the squint section. (i might be wrong aswell)

archiesmowle0609

3rd Oct 2019, 05:14

Hi Everyone

I am looking to transfer my medical from a UK CAA class one to an Austrian class 1 under austro control, however before doing so I want to be sure that I meet the eye sight requirements. Does anyone know where I can find the austrocontrol Austrian class one eyesight requirements? or will they be the same as that for the UK CAA

Thanks!

Banana Joe

4th Oct 2019, 12:47

I am not allowed to post URLs, so go on Austrocontrol website in English language, in the pilot section there is an Aeromedical section with guidelines. They all refer to Part-MED.
If you hold already a Class 1 there's nothing to worry about. It's just paperwork.

Bomber ARIS

5th Nov 2019, 00:22

Hello All,

Am getting to that age where I need to wear glasses for my night flying.

This is complicated further by the fact that my job requires me use night vision goggles.

I have heard that presbyopia doesn't really have a long term laser surgery solution, but I love to get just another 5 years of flying without faffing around with glasses.

I'd really appreciate any advice or to hear of anyone's experiences.

Thanks

Dr Jekyll

5th Nov 2019, 05:20

There is an argument that laser eye surgery increases depth of field in some way. The idea is that you can have one eye adjusted to be slightly shortsighted so you can read without glasses but also have useful distance vision of 20/40 or so, then have the other eye corrected (or left alone) so that it has good distance vision.

I was speaking to a BA pilot in her late 50s who has had this done and has a class one medical with no need for eye correction. Expensive though, about £6k altogether.

Cunningham6176

7th Nov 2019, 17:11

Hello,

Wondered if anyone could help me, I wish to undertake my Class 1 soon and my concern is with the eye testing, my corrected prescription is well in the requirements, however my problem is the distance vision or how they conduct this.

For example testing with my local Specsavers my corrected vision is

6/6 in the right eye
6/7.5 in the left
6/6 both together

but when at home if I conduct the test using a snellen chart at 6m away I struggle with my left eye to achieve the minium standard of 6/9.

So my question is how do they test for this at the Class 1 conduct the test is it the same as an optician in a chair for the illuminated screen?

many thanks

HAXDK

10th Nov 2019, 11:00

Hi fellow aviators

Initially i got my class 1 medical denied because i unfortunately suffer from amblyopia (One eye dominant, one eye weak). My strong eye is better than 20/20 while my weak eye is around 20/40-20/50 (tel:20/40-20/50). After months of eye training (i know it shouldn’t be possible), and with the right lenses i saw 20/20 on my weak eye and got granted a class 1 with RXO that restricts me to see an Eye Examiner every two years.

I’m now a pilot traniee, and concerned that i might be refused on the upcoming renewal, if i somehow have a bad eye day. The Danish authorities are very bad at giving a concrete answer, so i’m hoping that i can find some help here. Do any of you know the speific requirements for visual acuity? I keep reading diffrent things, where some website states 30/20 in each eye, and 20/20 with both eyes (EASA), and other sites stating for each eye seperately it’s 20/20 (somehow also EASA). If 30/20 is correct, then all my concerns will dissappear. If it’s 20/20 in each eye, then i might be looking at an OML restriction.
Sorry for the long read

OliverMitchell191213

18th Jan 2020, 07:21

Hi all,

In the next few months I'll be applying for my initial Class One medical. However, one thing that has always concerned me is my eyes. I have myopia and very slight astigmatism: -7.5 and -7.25 myopia, with -0.25 astigmatism in both.

The CAA GM states this in the 'Accetable Means of Compliance' column:
Applicants with the following conditions may be assessed as fit subject to satisfactory ophthalmic evaluation and provided that optimal correction has been considered and no significant pathology is demonstrated:
(ii) myopia not exceeding -6.0 dioptres;
(iii) astigmatism not exceeding 2.0 dioptres;

Therefore, by this, I should fail my medical as my myopia is outside the limits. However, in the 'Guidance Material' column, it states:
Applicants for a class 1 medical certificate with any of the following medical conditions shall be referred to the medical assessor of the licensing authority and may be assessed as fit subject to a satisfactory ophthalmological evaluation:
(i) Myopia exceeding -6.0 dioptres;
(ii) astigmatism exceeding 2.0 dioptres;
Assessment should be conducted by, or under the supervision of, an ophthalmologist and ensure that there is no underlying pathology or other ocular abnormalities. Monocular visual acuities shall be 6/6 or better. Assessment shall include:
1) Dilated, binocular, indirect ophthalmoscopy in cases of myopia exceeding –6.00 dioptres
2) Corneal topography at initial assessment (and at renewal where there is significant change in refraction) in cases of astigmatism exceeding 2.00 dioptres.

The local optician said the myopia should stop when I get to around 22 (I'm 18), and the astigmatism shouldn't get passed the -2.0 limit.

My question is this: has anyone successfully been certified an initial Class One with an exceedance in myopia or astigmatism? I know for myself there is no underlying issue and my eyes are healthy. I'm just concerned given that the CAA GM seems to contradict itself (probably me being paranoid...). Should I be worried about my medical? From what I can tell, I'll just be referred to someone higher up ('the medical assessor of the licensing authority'?), who can then approve it?

There is always the alternative of getting LASIK to bring my eyes within the limits.

Nootnoot

10th Feb 2020, 00:24

Howdy all, got a bit of a weird question here so I guess I’ll just lay it out. I’m 31 years old, ever since I was a teenager I’ve been wanting to become a commercial pilot how ever my eye sight is not great, essentially I have one eye that is better than 20/20 but my other eye is far worse, and unable to be corrected with glasses to 20/20. Initially when I was 18 I attempted to get a medical but my regular optometrist said quite clearly to me that I would never pass a medical. Silly me took them at their word and didn’t get a second opinion, made piece with my life and found a different career. Obviously 10 years later I’m in a far better position financially and still have that itch to go flying. I’ve since seen yet another casa approved optometrist in the hopes of anything changing and they said basically the same thing, this time I had done some research and found that it was possible to pass a class 1 with an exception, when I asked about that they tried to push me away from aviation with something along the lines of well if an airline had someone with no restriction vs someone with a restriction who would they take. I guess my question is if anyone knows of has experienced something similar. The two problems I have is getting a pass on the medical but even then I don’t want to invest a ton of money into cpl atp ect if airlines are going to see that and dismiss any application. Any guidance or stories of similar situations would be appreciated, I’ve always been flexible where I live so even employment out of Australia is a possibility for me. Thanks in advance.

CaptainEmad

10th Feb 2020, 02:04

Depends on the individual case. It may depend on when you first developed the problem. There are monocular pilots out there with class 1 medicals, but I believe, (don’t quote me) that they have not had use of that eye from birth. That may have something to do with the development of the visual pathways from the lens all the way to the visual cortex.

dr dre

10th Feb 2020, 02:07

What type of restriction/exemption are you talking about? Is it something that will unduly hamper your employment with an airline?

If it isn’t then I don’t see how an airline could deny you employment because of it.

Capn Bloggs

10th Feb 2020, 02:09

Eyeballs in the sky...

Have a look at CASR 67.150, specifically section 1.31 in the table for Class 1 requirements (page 370). Essentially, it's 6/9 in each eye, but 6/6 with both eyes (plus some requirements for close-in). That'll give you an idea re your first question.

Blueskymine

10th Feb 2020, 02:10

If you’ve got the class 1 medical, a valid licence and pass the recruitment process, you’ll get the job.

You will only have an issue if there’s a restriction on your medical such as copilot only, or day ops, VFR only etc.

Nootnoot

10th Feb 2020, 05:17

Hey guys thanks for the replies, most of what you bought up was how I was thinking it was just a bit worrying to have 2 CASA optometrists tell me not to bother even trying to get the medical. I guess for a little more history, my eyes have been that way since birth. My bad eye is worse than 6/9 but with both eyes my vision is better than 6/6. Most likely I'm just going to go for it regardless of what the 3rd optometrist will say, and see what they come back with once it all gets sent away.

RatherBeFlying

10th Feb 2020, 16:12

I remember hearing of an eye injury to my teacher's son. He lost vision in that eye, but eventually obtained a Class I medical and CPL in Canada in the 70s. The CAA tends to lag.

Colorado2013

21st Feb 2020, 21:44

I am hoping to enhance my vision slightly to 20/20 in each eye separately, primarily to start flying commercially again.

· I am 51 years old and have been wearing contacts or glasses for the last 25 years.

· With glasses or soft contacts I am approximately 20/30 in each eye separately.

· I have recently started using scleral contact lenses which are filled with sterile water prior to placement and have the effect of giving the eye a smooth uniform shape. These contacts are hard and have improved my vision. I am now able to get close to 20/20 (but missing 1 or 2 letters, and the others very hard to see) with each eye separately. I think these contacts have the effect of “removing” the astigmatism.

· I have recently started to look at surgery again, although 10 years ago a LASIK company said I was not a suitable candidate due to the astigmatism I have. The LASIK company may have had other reasons why I was not a good fit for surgery, but I can’t recall what they were. They also said that the LASIK surgery if successful would not improve my vision over what I was able to achieve with glasses or soft contacts.

· I am curious to know if eye surgery has changed/improved in last 10 years and whether I could now be a viable candidate.

· I would be interested to know if anyone has had any success with the William H Bates type eye exercises, and if yes how much did the eyes improve and how long did it take.

· I am in some ways very close to my 20/20 goal to be able to fly commercially again, and it seems a risk to be even contemplate surgery, even if it would work.

Any thoughts/suggestions are very much appreciated.

Captain Spam Can

28th Feb 2020, 14:07

I’m a current ATPL airline Pilot, no restrictions on medical but I am going to have an eye test.

If I need glasses what are the restrictions, is it to carry 2 pairs of sunglasses as well as 2 pairs of normal glasses?

Must the sunglasses be also corrected?

Since if it does happen it won’t be anything dramatic is there a tolerance on the class 1 so it won’t go down as a restriction on my next medical and thus need only 1 pair for distance.

Thanks in advice, much easier than CAA website.

rudestuff

28th Feb 2020, 18:48

If you need corrective lenses, you need to carry a spare set. That's it. What you actually wear and anything else you carry is up to you.

harryt

22nd Apr 2020, 15:28

Hi All!

Hope everyone is keeping well in this tough time. I am currently studying for my ATPL theory and already have a CAA class 1 medial which I am due to renew next month. I am becoming paranoid about losing my medical because of my eyesight. I wear glasses and my corrected vision is 6/6 eyes together 6/6 left eye, but my right eye is 6/9. So far I have managed to pass my medicals without issues, however I am worried about what happens when my right eye gets worse?

The way I understand it the rules are 6/6 eyes together, 6/9 in each eye.

but what happens if in the future my right eye goes below 6/9 assuming I can still see 6/6 eyes together? Is that it I just lose my medical and potentially my job?
Or do they give you a restriction of any type?

Thanks for any advice you may be able to offer!

Tight Accountant

24th May 2020, 11:42

Hello, This may be the incorrect thread but I'm somewhat stunned about something I've read about pilot eye-sight requirements on Twitter. On the following thread, it mentions that the Captain of TACA Flight 110 which had a landing mishap in 1988, only had one eye. Now, forgive me, I thought pilots had to have binocular vision in order to judge depth? On the same thread, a BA First Officer has stated you can fly with one eye! I'm terribly confused! I always wanted to be a commercial airline pilot but it was ruled out due to my lack of binocular vision. Could someone please provide me with the cold hard facts?

Here's the link but appreciate a Twitter account may be required.

https://twitter.com/OnDisasters/status/1264315847109214208

I will be interested to read the replies.

whistla

10th Aug 2020, 15:32

I am considering laser eye surgery in the near future but will equally be looking to (re)gain my class 1 in the next 12months. Has anyone had any experiences of laser eye surgery and the CAA? I have had a look at the current regulations and it seems a (surprisingly) very simple and easy process.

There are a wider number of clinics in the UK ranging from the high street clinics like Optical Express or Optimax to independents like London Vision Clinic, if anyone has had any dealings or experiences, I would welcome your feedback.

DCS17

10th Aug 2020, 16:27

Think long and hard about having a surgical procedure to your (presumably) otherwise healthy eyes.
It is not a small decision.
Have a clearly defined goal for treatment to achieve. If it is complete freedom from glasses then make sure the surgeon knows this.
If you are happy to need some prescription, but just lower power, then tell him/her.
Examine the complication rate and downsides, as well as the sucess rate of your individual surgeon in achieving your desired outcome.
What will you do if you are the unlucky one?
Will you be able to look back at the decision to go ahead, and say it was still the right decision, even if your vision is harmed (and perhaps can no longer fly)?
What level of risk is acceptable to you as an individual? It's different of everyone.

Avoid reading the adverts and study the published peer reviewed literature instead.

nonsense

10th Aug 2020, 17:02

L_ser is used for many different eye surgeries, perhaps tell us what surgery you have your eye on?

whistla

12th Aug 2020, 10:10

Thanks - I have spent a lot of time looking at the different options and well aware of the risks, if I decide to proceed, it will be with one of the higher-rated clinics (and more expensive) as the additional cost will outweigh the difference in risk.

The main aim is so that I do not need to wear glasses, being a wearer for >15years and with my eyesight now settled, its something I have been considering for a long time. Although I have not yet been for a consultation, it will most likely be a LASIK

RatherBeFlying

12th Aug 2020, 14:50

You might want to contact your national CAA to explore their long-term experience with pilots who have undergone similar surgery.

nonsense

12th Aug 2020, 16:13

whistla

Bear in mind that at about 45yo you will develop presbyopia and suddenly being myopic doesn't seem like such a bad idea.

Radgirl

12th Aug 2020, 17:17

I have spent a lot of time looking at the different options and well aware of the risks, if I decide to proceed, it will be with one of the higher-rated clinics (and more expensive) as the additional cost will outweigh the difference in risk.

PLEASE be careful. Unless you are qualified you do not know the risks. The only way to determine the risk in your individual case is by a face to face consultation with the surgeon or operator.

I would seek out the individual not put your trust in the most expensive or the flashiest marketing. Sadly many ratings are worthless. I am not casting aspersions on any particular company and some are most professional, but private medicine is famous for slick marketing and ratings written by their own employees......A building or advert doesnt do the procedure, a human being does. Check him or her out carefully.

atakacs

12th Aug 2020, 21:36

Bear in mind that at about 45yo you will develop presbyopia and suddenly being myopic doesn't seem like such a bad idea.
I am getting close to 55 and despite having a Lasik procedure from -10/-8 25 years ago I am still not in need of correction.
I am definitely on the lucky side but it is possible...

A Very Civil Pilot

22nd Aug 2020, 09:39

Since reaching my 50s my vision is slightly deteriorating, and I need corrective lenses. All in all not a problem, but it’s applying it to the aviation world that is the complication.

So, my normal daytime my vision is fine, and I just need reading glasses, (+1.75 I think).
Daytime after a long duty, and my eyes are feeling a bit tired, my long distance vision is fine (i.e looking out for the runway), but my middle distance is a bit blurry (i.e looking at the instruments). I have a slight prescription to correct this, and still need the reading element, so have a pair of Occupational lenses to cover this.
At night it’s similar, but I need to occupational lenses all this time.

The difficulty is that I need 3 focal distances. Long - uncorrected, middle - corrected, near - corrected. At the moment I overcome this by resting my glasses on the end of my nose so that I can look over the top, it works but isn’t the best solution.

Surely I’m not the only pilot to have this issue, so what are the rest of us doing to overcome this?

RatherBeFlying

22nd Aug 2020, 15:52

I have the reverse of your problem.
One pair with full distance correction; fortunately I can just make out the instruments without bifocals. For far sighted people there are lower half lens reading glasses which may help you in the cockpit.

bafanguy

22nd Aug 2020, 17:50

Surely I’m not the only pilot to have this issue, so what are the rest of us doing to overcome this?

Trifocal lenses ? I wore them for years. I'd expect anyone who can fit you for bifocals can also fit you for trifocals ?

Loose rivets

22nd Aug 2020, 22:10

Don't go for vari-focal, although if the middle band is 0 / planar they might work. Any correction in the middle height seems to be reduced to a ridiculously narrow hourglass which needed head turning simply to follow a line on a page.

I was flying a new type in my old age and needed to be quite sure I was identifying the ATR's overhead buttons correctly. Some of my colleagues were spending hundreds of pounds on tri-focals but that was out of my budget.

I got a 5 quid pair of horn-rimmed ready readers and Dremel'd a horizontal slot out of the middle. Perfect.

I did find some reluctance to making me full size split readers. Spec Savers said they don't do those any more and made me the small rounded readers. I was lucky that I rarely ever needed long distance. Just a touch of CYL correction was nice, but a luxury. I've had a lot to say over decades about focusing with the extraocular muscles. I really annoyed a pal/local optician when I was quite young because I'd report a slightly different angle for the cylinder (astigmatism) correction almost every time I had a check up. In old age it cost me dear.

I repeat this tale whenever I can. I had some very distressing weeks of eye ache and I think found the answer. However, a recent comment on Quora shows people are not open to new ideas. There is something published with the proposal that prime focussing is achieved in youth by way of the extra ocular muscles. If it were true, the following would be substantiated.

I spent a lot of a summer holiday back in the UK with aching eyes and slight defocusing. I sought urgent help but no one could find out what was wrong. The Rivetess had to stand on the brakes for some critter that ran out in front of us and at that moment my eyes relaxed and focussed. I knew what was wrong, and an urgent request for Diazipam gave the muscle relaxant needed for diagnostics. 30 minutes after weeks and back to perfect relaxed focus. It's an odd thing, but when spasms like this get found out, they seem to just dissolve away. I have a friend who was rushed to hospital with a neck that was jammed solid. He'd had a history of it, just now and then. Nursie gave him a huge shot of relaxant and he was fine.

Ironpot

22nd Aug 2020, 23:18

Definitely varifocals! Worth every penny.

You need two pairs in the cockpit - I have one pair tinted.

rob_ste97

27th Aug 2020, 00:14

Hi everyone.

Going through the stages of trying to get a Class 1 (not hopeful but worth a shot), and had my eye exam today. Right eye is ok, 6/5 but my left eye is 6/7.8 which I understand is approaching the limit for Class 1 certification. I was very shocked as at my last exam at 18 years old I had greater than 6/6 vision in both eyes.
I’m concerned now that my eyesight may deteriorate further resulting in future loss of any Class 1 that I may obtain.

Has anyone who’s flying commercially has similar issues at the tender age of 23? Do visual issues like this tend to get worse, and would my eyesight be considered dangerously close to being out of limits?

Many thanks in advance.

B2N2

27th Aug 2020, 01:14

Working from memory here, I seem to recall the first issuance is the most stringent and follow ups over the years are more lenient towards hearing and vision.
Can someone chime in and confirm?
Apologies if I’m completely off base here.

rob_ste97

27th Aug 2020, 10:29

That does seem to be the case. I believe that my eyesight is ok for now but in time I have a feeling I might get a VDL on top of a possible OML (not a good combo).

I wonder if many wannabes my age begin developing vision issues and whether they manage to have a relatively successful career despite this.

Specaircrew

27th Aug 2020, 21:02

Yep, been there done that. Don't faff about get two decent pairs of varifocals, I got them after realising once too often that I was wearing the wrong glasses as I looked up at DH! Varifocal contacts are even better( I still teach in the sim) but now I'm retired I have no idea if they're allowed on the flight deck yet.

dns

29th Aug 2020, 17:35

Hi,

Can someone confirm that I do NOT need perfect (6/6) vision in order to get an initial Class 1 medical in the UK?

I've been looking through the CAA guidance notes and it seems that 6/9 in one eye is good enough on initial examination, as long as it's 6/6 with both.

Am I misreading the guidance notes? (they're clearly intended for AMEs so aren't exactly in plain English for everyday muppets like me to understand!)

Devilspoint

2nd Apr 2021, 13:51

hi folks,
if i wanna bs initial easa class 1 after having lasik a few years ago, can i do it?

dns

2nd Apr 2021, 20:04

Yes, that shouldn't be an issue at all. Just mention it on your initial form and maybe include the report you got from the clinic showing that all had gone as planned.

You will be referred to an opthamologist to give you a once over to make sure your eyes are in good shape, but that's pretty normal.

I've recently had an opthamologist assessment for my class 1 as I have astigmatism. The consultant I saw was a laser specialist and told me that if I ever wanted LASIK then I could have it done during a short break (6-8 weeks) from flying and shouldn't cause any problems.

RatherBeFlying

7th Apr 2021, 16:45

I've been prescribed prisms by optometrists on my glasses since my teens. Your optometrist can likely do the same and recommend exercises.

My ophthalmologist sent me to an orthoptist a few years ago and I came out with a diagnosis of an ocular nerve palsy for which there's nothing to do beyond what the optometrist is already doing. Two medicals later a new regional medical officer had a panic attack over stability of a condition I've had since my teens:confused:

Your prism prescription is correct when you are looking straight ahead without tilting your head when driving on a straight road in the countryside.

You may qualify for a lower category medical and use that to get a private license. Once an experienced pilot, you might qualify for category 1.

Proper fusion is only important in your flare to land. Without you will be either flaring late or early and it will be a long time before you will solo.

Oh yes, some optometrists are more conscientious than others on getting your prisms right.

dns

7th Apr 2021, 19:55

It is my understanding (not a pro, but had vision problems myself and know the CAA guidance material rather well) that diplopia is an automatic disqualification.

BUT, do not give up hope. Look into your options with private opthamologists and see what can be corrected. It may not be good news, but you never know until you try.

I've spent the last 16 years without a medical because I gave up when I didn't think I could meet the requirements. Turns out I was wrong, I just needed the right optometrist and spend a few months of patience whilst getting used to contact lenses!

RatherBeFlying

8th Apr 2021, 16:13

If the CAA won't accept prisms, move to Canada.

Herbie65

7th Dec 2022, 16:27

I had cataract surgery last week and i am now waiting for my class 1 Medical (EASA) According our company doctor, besides visus at the medical they also check for HALO's, starburst, glare, dislopie, and loss of contrast,
As for now i don't have any of these, But what kinds of tests are they using to check this?

toptobottom

7th Dec 2022, 17:17

I'd contact Adrian Chorley at aviationvisionservices.com - he conducted my post-op (multi-focal IOL) tests and can explain all :cool:

what next

7th Dec 2022, 20:33

But what kinds of tests are they using to check this?

I've had catarct surgery this summer and they just performed all the usual checks at the aeromedical center where I have been going since 15 years (also EASA). All these halo, starburst, glare and whatever else effects are subjective, you either see it or you don't, but I wouldn't know how anyone could detect that with an instrument.

richard.long

13th Jan 2023, 09:48

The current implementing rules for vision for the UK CAA Class 1 medical state that applicants with hypermetropia exceeding +5D may be assessed as fit after referral to the medical assessor.

'Implementing Rules' (c)(3): "Notwithstanding point (c)(1), applicants for a class 1 medical certificate with hypermetropia exceeding +5.0 dioptres shall be referred to the medical assessor of the licensing authority and may be assessed as fit subject to a satisfactory ophthalmological evaluation, provided that there are adequate fusional reserves, normal intraocular pressures and anterior angles and no significant pathology has been demonstrated. Notwithstanding point (b)(1)(i), corrected visual acuity in each eye shall be 6/6 or better."

Does anyone have any experience of such a referral and what the process is provided that everything is otherwise healthy and normal?

aspiringpilot1511

15th Jan 2023, 13:03

I’m 24 and have wanted to be an airline pilot since I was 5 years old. I have been diagnosed with amblyopia in my left eye due to refractive error. I see 6/6 in the right eye and 6/12 in the left with correction. And 6/6 binocularly. Will I have any luck getting an initial class 1 with the CAA or EASA or should I just give up on my dream and consider moving abroad to fly? Thanks

rfl500500

16th Jan 2023, 13:29

Hi,

I cannot see any rules preventing you obtaining a class1 medical with amblyopia. What is the refractive error in each eye?

The problem will be visual acuity in your left eye. If your refractive errors are within range then you may be subject to the limit of 6/9 in your left eye. Can your left eye be improved to 6/9?

aspiringpilot1511

16th Jan 2023, 15:08

rfl500500

18th Jan 2023, 17:53

aspiringpilot1511

28th Jan 2023, 12:14

When you say you 'don't think' you can get 6/9 out of your left eye how certain of this are you? Since the RE does not exceed +5D then 6/9 is the limit you need to get to. It is worth spending the time and effort with an opthalmologist to determine the best you can expect to achieve. If your acuity is neurologically limited then the best acuity can be quickly determined. Best to be absolutely certain about the best acuity to you could possibly get before exploring next ptions.

I’ve spent lots of money and time on ophthalmologists and it hasn’t been that successful. 6/12 is the best I’ve been able to see my whole life and it can’t be corrected to 6/9 due to amblyopia. I’ve often had the problem of having the refractive error scanned on a computer and the optician deciding I need strong lenses when all this time it was the other way round I went from +5/+6 lenses to +3.5 varifocals which help me see 6/12 now. Will I be ok with the CAA? Some have said that it’s not up for discussion and 6/9 is the absolute minimum but there must be airline pilots out there that see 6/12 in one eye like myself?

PPLHing

27th Mar 2023, 15:31

Hi,
after reading the latest CAA guidelines about refractory eye surgery, I was wondering whether anyone experienced some hardships to get a Class 1 Medical after the refractory eye surgery ?
Thanks

geordie_flyer

18th Jun 2023, 04:43

Hi all,
I have some eyesight questions (yes I know there's many on here but I want more "Tailored" opinions).

To put it bluntly - the eyesight in my left eye is rubbish due to Ambloypia. My prescription is weak (O.D Sph +0.25, Cyl -0.5 Axis 0. O.S Sph +0.75, Cyl -0.25 Axis 20) so I will pass this. My issue is Visual Acuity. At home, when I test myself I am 6/6 together but very very borderline 6/9 in my left eye depending on the day, however whenever I go to the opticians at home they have recently been putting 6/9 or even 6/6 (6/6 is absolutely 100% incorrect). So obviously this leaves me very nervous if I were ever to do a Class 1.

So my first question is, when you do the visual acuity test - is it identical to doing it at an opticians (in that they don't mind you taking it slow) or do they want you to read the lines quickly with confidence.

Secondly, I already hold a UK (EASA) Class 2 Medical from 2018 which needs renewed next year. I take it that if I go for a Class 1 medical it will be done under the Initial guidance rather than a renewal as it will be my first Class 1.

Finally, If I was to do a Class 1 I would do a combined CAA/EASA examination to get both licences. If I completed a MED 162/EASA equivalent by the regular eye specialists I have been using and showed the examiner on my initial, would they take this and pass me based on this or is this just a waste of time?

Thanks in advance for any answers you may be able to give.