Class 1 Medical Exemption

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Join Date: Jul 2019
Location: Sydney, Australia
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Hi everyone.
In recent years I've noticed that I've become increasingly affected by myopia in my left eye. The current class 1 visual acuity requirements require "a distant visual acuity of 6/9 or better in each eye separately and 6/6 or better binocular" (with or without correcting lenses). I already have correcting lenses and I'm JUST meeting the the 6/9 requirement for my left eye independently however I meet the remaining two conditions without a problem. Hence, I was wondering if anyone knows as to wether CASA grant certain exemptions or impose restrictions under such circumstances to retain a Class 1.
Thanks in advance
In recent years I've noticed that I've become increasingly affected by myopia in my left eye. The current class 1 visual acuity requirements require "a distant visual acuity of 6/9 or better in each eye separately and 6/6 or better binocular" (with or without correcting lenses). I already have correcting lenses and I'm JUST meeting the the 6/9 requirement for my left eye independently however I meet the remaining two conditions without a problem. Hence, I was wondering if anyone knows as to wether CASA grant certain exemptions or impose restrictions under such circumstances to retain a Class 1.
Thanks in advance
Join Date: Dec 2004
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Just wondering why you can't go for an eye test and up the prescription on your lenses? Not sure how you would go getting an exemption for something that can be fixed so easily...

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Join Date: Jul 2019
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The prescription I currently have is relatively strong. I'm more so just curious with respect to future prospects whereby simply applying for a new prescription longer becomes an option.
Join Date: Jul 2001
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Then check with CASA as to whether the proposed operation will be acceptable to CASA.
I have had friends who have had remarkable results --- in one case, going from "cokebottle" lenses to no glasses at all.
Tootle pip!!
Join Date: Jan 1999
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I has a problem with the vision in one corner of my left eye some years back. Had all sorts of examinations and recommendations for an op etc. but never did it. CASA granted me a monocular Class 1 and if I recall the only condition was that I had to advise the FO of the problem. I never did a flight test for it. Turned out to be a venus occlusion of the retina (only in one area) and it fixed itself some months later and the restriction was lifted.
My advise would be to try for a monocular Class 1 until you get the problem sorted. Everyone is different so worth it. Have a chat to your DAME first. Good luck.
My advise would be to try for a monocular Class 1 until you get the problem sorted. Everyone is different so worth it. Have a chat to your DAME first. Good luck.
Join Date: Feb 2018
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I am functionally monocular and hold a Class 2 medical restricted to no low-level, Aag flying or helicopters. I was advised by an Avmed assessor to try for Class 1 next time so they do grant exemptions.
My eyes are a little strange in that they are both "6/6" but I only use one of them at a time, and will switch between them.
I had to jump through a lot of hoops to get my Class 2 but I can understand Avmed's concern. The full process was:
- Initial meeting with DAME when I told them about my condition (my first mistake!)
- Told to go to Optician for report on my eyes.
- Told to go to a DAO who did even more tests.
- Told to demonstrate my abilities to CFI at flying school.
With all of these successfully completed I was granted a Class 2 with a validity of two years. I am also "on audit". My renewal is coming up so hopefully it will be less of a palaver this time and they might remove my restrictions. Undecided whether to bother with the Class 1 medical.
My eyes are a little strange in that they are both "6/6" but I only use one of them at a time, and will switch between them.
I had to jump through a lot of hoops to get my Class 2 but I can understand Avmed's concern. The full process was:
- Initial meeting with DAME when I told them about my condition (my first mistake!)
- Told to go to Optician for report on my eyes.
- Told to go to a DAO who did even more tests.
- Told to demonstrate my abilities to CFI at flying school.
With all of these successfully completed I was granted a Class 2 with a validity of two years. I am also "on audit". My renewal is coming up so hopefully it will be less of a palaver this time and they might remove my restrictions. Undecided whether to bother with the Class 1 medical.

Join Date: Sep 2018
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CAA western cape
I passed my class 1 medical in the Western Cape. 2 hours later I was violently ill. Or the Dr. Didnt pick it up or picked it up in the waiting room.still passed. I personally believe money is more important to our safety officials.