Getting a JAA Class 1 with poor eyesight

[The Prince]

I've seen several posts on eysight issues which I would appreciate clarification of. I currently fail the initial JAA Class 1 standard.

a) I've heard that getting an FAA Class 1 and then going for a JAA re-validation can work(I pass the re-validation limits). Is this a legitimate and gauranteed route and do you have to get an FAA CPL first or just the medical ?

b) LASIK treatment - my understanding is that if you fail the class 1 standard prior to treatment then you still fail - Is this policy reversed.

If I can see a way to passing the eyesight test and getting a JAA Class 1 then I will go and do it. There currently is this huge obstacle.

(I've read the stuff on the CAA site).

[SAS-A321]

I have the same problem as you:(

a) Haven't heard about it, but if it works.....great!

b) I think it depends on your country's CAA. In my country Denmark you'll have to be within the limits before an openration so....waste of money and risking your eyes.

[dmdrewitt]

I have been to Gatwick 4 times now.

Yesterday I was finally granted the JAA C1 medical.

After my 2nd attempt, it was suggested that I obtained a Foreign CPL. (suggestion was US). Then reapply, and be tested at the revalidation standards. The UK is the only JAA member state to offer this route to a C1 medical.

I then let Gatwick, do the FAA medical with the intention of going to the states, but the application took such a long time coming back, so I decided to persue Canada. I had a Canadian Class 1 done locally for £100 inc ECG, and the certificate was back before the FAA one.

The Canadian was unrestricted C1, but the FAA has a MFT (Medical Flight Test) requirement on it. Not sure what this entails, as I have been to Canada, and got the Canadian CPL, so it is now irrelevant to me.

Now Gatwick have assessed me at the Revalidation JAA C1 standards, and I passed.

Gatwick WILL NOT just accept a FAA or Canadian C1 medical. You need to have a CPL or ATPL to go with it.

Hope this helps.

If anyone wants details of where I did the CPL in Canada, please contact me.