Colour Blindness (merged)
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Does anyone have a link(s) to the standards of how a Farnsworth Lantern Test is to be conducted (ie conditions etc)
I am an OZ CPL. A couple of years ago I failed my Farnsworth Lantern Test. The test was conducted in a nearly completely dark (except for a dim desk lamp for the optometrist on the desk BEHIND the lantern unit!). I was required to view the lanterns via a mirror in FRONT of me reflecting the lanterns BEHIND me. Also, there was some white light leakage around some of the lanterns which I questioned and the optometris said that was normal and 'part of the test'.
I have been flying on the dispensation allowed bythe CASA up to ATPL so far 2900hrs single pilot, of that 780hrs night and 300+ single pilot IFR. I have flown into major terminal area airports with all the trimmings and 'black hole' airfields with no approach lights or approach path guidance without mishap. So I suppose I am testament to the fact that being colour vision 'deficient' is not so dangerous.
I would like to resit my Farnsworth under proper conditions, so any help is appreciated (and sorry if i missed the info if i missed it in the previous 10 pages!)
I am an OZ CPL. A couple of years ago I failed my Farnsworth Lantern Test. The test was conducted in a nearly completely dark (except for a dim desk lamp for the optometrist on the desk BEHIND the lantern unit!). I was required to view the lanterns via a mirror in FRONT of me reflecting the lanterns BEHIND me. Also, there was some white light leakage around some of the lanterns which I questioned and the optometris said that was normal and 'part of the test'.
I have been flying on the dispensation allowed bythe CASA up to ATPL so far 2900hrs single pilot, of that 780hrs night and 300+ single pilot IFR. I have flown into major terminal area airports with all the trimmings and 'black hole' airfields with no approach lights or approach path guidance without mishap. So I suppose I am testament to the fact that being colour vision 'deficient' is not so dangerous.
I would like to resit my Farnsworth under proper conditions, so any help is appreciated (and sorry if i missed the info if i missed it in the previous 10 pages!)
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Does anyone have a link(s) to the standards of how a Farnsworth Lantern Test is to be conducted (ie conditions etc)
I am an OZ CPL. A couple of years ago I failed my Farnsworth Lantern Test. The test was conducted in a nearly completely dark (except for a dim desk lamp for the optometrist on the desk BEHIND the lantern unit!). I was required to view the lanterns via a mirror in FRONT of me reflecting the lanterns BEHIND me. Also, there was some white light leakage around some of the lanterns which I questioned and the optometris said that was normal and 'part of the test'.
I have been flying on the dispensation allowed bythe CASA up to ATPL so far 2900hrs single pilot, of that 780hrs night and 300+ single pilot IFR. I have flown into major terminal area airports with all the trimmings and 'black hole' airfields with no approach lights or approach path guidance without mishap. So I suppose I am testament to the fact that being colour vision 'deficient' is not so dangerous.
I would like to resit my Farnsworth under proper conditions, so any help is appreciated (and sorry if i missed the info if i missed it in the previous 10 pages!)
I am an OZ CPL. A couple of years ago I failed my Farnsworth Lantern Test. The test was conducted in a nearly completely dark (except for a dim desk lamp for the optometrist on the desk BEHIND the lantern unit!). I was required to view the lanterns via a mirror in FRONT of me reflecting the lanterns BEHIND me. Also, there was some white light leakage around some of the lanterns which I questioned and the optometris said that was normal and 'part of the test'.
I have been flying on the dispensation allowed bythe CASA up to ATPL so far 2900hrs single pilot, of that 780hrs night and 300+ single pilot IFR. I have flown into major terminal area airports with all the trimmings and 'black hole' airfields with no approach lights or approach path guidance without mishap. So I suppose I am testament to the fact that being colour vision 'deficient' is not so dangerous.
I would like to resit my Farnsworth under proper conditions, so any help is appreciated (and sorry if i missed the info if i missed it in the previous 10 pages!)
Moderator
Farnsworth Lantern
I don't have a link, but the procedures I use are:
Operation of the Test. Points on the operation of the lantern are as follows:
(1) It is important that the FALANT be used through the step-down transformer supplied and not plugged directly into a 240 V power outlet.
(2) The test should be performed in a normally lighted room. The room should be screened from glare and exclude sunlight. The applicant should not face the source of room illumination.
(3) Only one applicant should be tested at a time (others should not be allowed to watch).
(4) The applicant should be positioned 2.5 metres from the lantern.
(5) The applicant may stand or sit. If glasses are used for distance, they should be worn. The aperture of the lantern should be directed at the head of the applicant and the adjusting screw should be tightened to hold the lantern in this position.
(6) The examiner must be CP1.
Conduct of the test. The test is to be conducted as follows:
(1) The examiner should inform the applicant that, ‘the lights you will see in this lantern are red, green or white. They look like signal lights at a distance. Two lights are presented at a time in any combination, one above the other. Call out the colours as soon as you see them, naming the colour at the top first and then
the colour at the bottom. Remember, only three colours, red, green and white—and top first’.
(2) The examiner should turn the knob at the top of the lantern to change the lights. To expose the lights, the button in the centre of the knob should be depressed. The examiner should maintain regular timing of about two seconds per exposure.
(3) The lights should be exposed in random order, starting with an RG (red, green) or GR (green, red) combination (Nos 1 or 5), continuing until each of the nine combinations has been exposed.
(4) If the applicant says ‘yellow’, ‘pink’, etc. the examiner should remind them that ‘there are only three colours—red, green and white’.
(5) If the applicant takes a long time to respond, the examiner should inform them ‘as soon as you see the lights, call them’.
Scoring of the test. The test is to be recorded and scored
as follows:
(1) An error is considered the miscalling of one or both of a pair of lights.
(2) If no errors are made on the first run of nine pairs of lights, the applicant is passed.
(3) If any errors are made on the first run, discard the results of the first run and give two more complete runs.
(4) Add the errors of these last two runs. Two errors or less represents a pass (CP2), more than two errors a fail (CP3).
Hope this helps.
Cheers,
BM
Operation of the Test. Points on the operation of the lantern are as follows:
(1) It is important that the FALANT be used through the step-down transformer supplied and not plugged directly into a 240 V power outlet.
(2) The test should be performed in a normally lighted room. The room should be screened from glare and exclude sunlight. The applicant should not face the source of room illumination.
(3) Only one applicant should be tested at a time (others should not be allowed to watch).
(4) The applicant should be positioned 2.5 metres from the lantern.
(5) The applicant may stand or sit. If glasses are used for distance, they should be worn. The aperture of the lantern should be directed at the head of the applicant and the adjusting screw should be tightened to hold the lantern in this position.
(6) The examiner must be CP1.
Conduct of the test. The test is to be conducted as follows:
(1) The examiner should inform the applicant that, ‘the lights you will see in this lantern are red, green or white. They look like signal lights at a distance. Two lights are presented at a time in any combination, one above the other. Call out the colours as soon as you see them, naming the colour at the top first and then
the colour at the bottom. Remember, only three colours, red, green and white—and top first’.
(2) The examiner should turn the knob at the top of the lantern to change the lights. To expose the lights, the button in the centre of the knob should be depressed. The examiner should maintain regular timing of about two seconds per exposure.
(3) The lights should be exposed in random order, starting with an RG (red, green) or GR (green, red) combination (Nos 1 or 5), continuing until each of the nine combinations has been exposed.
(4) If the applicant says ‘yellow’, ‘pink’, etc. the examiner should remind them that ‘there are only three colours—red, green and white’.
(5) If the applicant takes a long time to respond, the examiner should inform them ‘as soon as you see the lights, call them’.
Scoring of the test. The test is to be recorded and scored
as follows:
(1) An error is considered the miscalling of one or both of a pair of lights.
(2) If no errors are made on the first run of nine pairs of lights, the applicant is passed.
(3) If any errors are made on the first run, discard the results of the first run and give two more complete runs.
(4) Add the errors of these last two runs. Two errors or less represents a pass (CP2), more than two errors a fail (CP3).
Hope this helps.
Cheers,
BM
Moderator
Farnsworth Lantern
I don't have a link, but the procedures I use are:
Operation of the Test. Points on the operation of the lantern are as follows:
(1) It is important that the FALANT be used through the step-down transformer supplied and not plugged directly into a 240 V power outlet.
(2) The test should be performed in a normally lighted room. The room should be screened from glare and exclude sunlight. The applicant should not face the source of room illumination.
(3) Only one applicant should be tested at a time (others should not be allowed to watch).
(4) The applicant should be positioned 2.5 metres from the lantern.
(5) The applicant may stand or sit. If glasses are used for distance, they should be worn. The aperture of the lantern should be directed at the head of the applicant and the adjusting screw should be tightened to hold the lantern in this position.
(6) The examiner must be CP1.
Conduct of the test. The test is to be conducted as follows:
(1) The examiner should inform the applicant that, ‘the lights you will see in this lantern are red, green or white. They look like signal lights at a distance. Two lights are presented at a time in any combination, one above the other. Call out the colours as soon as you see them, naming the colour at the top first and then
the colour at the bottom. Remember, only three colours, red, green and white—and top first’.
(2) The examiner should turn the knob at the top of the lantern to change the lights. To expose the lights, the button in the centre of the knob should be depressed. The examiner should maintain regular timing of about two seconds per exposure.
(3) The lights should be exposed in random order, starting with an RG (red, green) or GR (green, red) combination (Nos 1 or 5), continuing until each of the nine combinations has been exposed.
(4) If the applicant says ‘yellow’, ‘pink’, etc. the examiner should remind them that ‘there are only three colours—red, green and white’.
(5) If the applicant takes a long time to respond, the examiner should inform them ‘as soon as you see the lights, call them’.
Scoring of the test. The test is to be recorded and scored
as follows:
(1) An error is considered the miscalling of one or both of a pair of lights.
(2) If no errors are made on the first run of nine pairs of lights, the applicant is passed.
(3) If any errors are made on the first run, discard the results of the first run and give two more complete runs.
(4) Add the errors of these last two runs. Two errors or less represents a pass (CP2), more than two errors a fail (CP3).
Hope this helps.
Cheers,
BM
Operation of the Test. Points on the operation of the lantern are as follows:
(1) It is important that the FALANT be used through the step-down transformer supplied and not plugged directly into a 240 V power outlet.
(2) The test should be performed in a normally lighted room. The room should be screened from glare and exclude sunlight. The applicant should not face the source of room illumination.
(3) Only one applicant should be tested at a time (others should not be allowed to watch).
(4) The applicant should be positioned 2.5 metres from the lantern.
(5) The applicant may stand or sit. If glasses are used for distance, they should be worn. The aperture of the lantern should be directed at the head of the applicant and the adjusting screw should be tightened to hold the lantern in this position.
(6) The examiner must be CP1.
Conduct of the test. The test is to be conducted as follows:
(1) The examiner should inform the applicant that, ‘the lights you will see in this lantern are red, green or white. They look like signal lights at a distance. Two lights are presented at a time in any combination, one above the other. Call out the colours as soon as you see them, naming the colour at the top first and then
the colour at the bottom. Remember, only three colours, red, green and white—and top first’.
(2) The examiner should turn the knob at the top of the lantern to change the lights. To expose the lights, the button in the centre of the knob should be depressed. The examiner should maintain regular timing of about two seconds per exposure.
(3) The lights should be exposed in random order, starting with an RG (red, green) or GR (green, red) combination (Nos 1 or 5), continuing until each of the nine combinations has been exposed.
(4) If the applicant says ‘yellow’, ‘pink’, etc. the examiner should remind them that ‘there are only three colours—red, green and white’.
(5) If the applicant takes a long time to respond, the examiner should inform them ‘as soon as you see the lights, call them’.
Scoring of the test. The test is to be recorded and scored
as follows:
(1) An error is considered the miscalling of one or both of a pair of lights.
(2) If no errors are made on the first run of nine pairs of lights, the applicant is passed.
(3) If any errors are made on the first run, discard the results of the first run and give two more complete runs.
(4) Add the errors of these last two runs. Two errors or less represents a pass (CP2), more than two errors a fail (CP3).
Hope this helps.
Cheers,
BM
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Thanks Bad Med.
The setup of my test was not like you describe, especially in the setup of the machine.
Would this contribute to a failure?? In real life I can see the differences in colours on the aprons, tower beacons etc - green/white is sometimes a little 'tricky'.
I see you are located inAustralia. Can I PM you for more details about where you conduct these tests and possible organise a 'resit'?
The setup of my test was not like you describe, especially in the setup of the machine.
Would this contribute to a failure?? In real life I can see the differences in colours on the aprons, tower beacons etc - green/white is sometimes a little 'tricky'.
I see you are located inAustralia. Can I PM you for more details about where you conduct these tests and possible organise a 'resit'?
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Thanks Bad Med.
The setup of my test was not like you describe, especially in the setup of the machine.
Would this contribute to a failure?? In real life I can see the differences in colours on the aprons, tower beacons etc - green/white is sometimes a little 'tricky'.
I see you are located inAustralia. Can I PM you for more details about where you conduct these tests and possible organise a 'resit'?
The setup of my test was not like you describe, especially in the setup of the machine.
Would this contribute to a failure?? In real life I can see the differences in colours on the aprons, tower beacons etc - green/white is sometimes a little 'tricky'.
I see you are located inAustralia. Can I PM you for more details about where you conduct these tests and possible organise a 'resit'?
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I want to use this as a 'last resort'.
By the sounds of things I don't think my Falant test was done correctly - going by the conditions Bad Med indicates.
Also, I have stopped smoking for the last 2 years and wonder if this makes any difference.
By the sounds of things I don't think my Falant test was done correctly - going by the conditions Bad Med indicates.
Also, I have stopped smoking for the last 2 years and wonder if this makes any difference.
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I want to use this as a 'last resort'.
By the sounds of things I don't think my Falant test was done correctly - going by the conditions Bad Med indicates.
Also, I have stopped smoking for the last 2 years and wonder if this makes any difference.
By the sounds of things I don't think my Falant test was done correctly - going by the conditions Bad Med indicates.
Also, I have stopped smoking for the last 2 years and wonder if this makes any difference.
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erm stoping smoking will do nothing to improve your colourvision 
but yes it would be better to pass with the other tests. I've got the problem that I can pass the tests here in the UK so am thinking of moving to austrailia in 2005 and trying to get my dream off the ground
but yes it would be better to pass with the other tests. I've got the problem that I can pass the tests here in the UK so am thinking of moving to austrailia in 2005 and trying to get my dream off the ground
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erm stoping smoking will do nothing to improve your colourvision
but yes it would be better to pass with the other tests. I've got the problem that I can pass the tests here in the UK so am thinking of moving to austrailia in 2005 and trying to get my dream off the ground
but yes it would be better to pass with the other tests. I've got the problem that I can pass the tests here in the UK so am thinking of moving to austrailia in 2005 and trying to get my dream off the ground
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Eyesight limitations
Does anyone have any information regarding color blindness and rotocraft flight. I am currently a student Pilot dealing with limitations because of color blindness. I am looking for information on the signal light gun test, and other ways of dealing with the limitation. I seem to be the only colorblind person flying at HAI. They are little help.
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Here's something to start with:
ps, I'm at HAI also, just starting the CFI ground school.
-John
The newly revised standards in Part 67 specify that applicants for all classes of medical certification have "the ability to perceive those colors necessary for the safe performance of airman duties."
If the airman does not pass the color vision test administered in the aviation medical examiner's office at the time of the FAA physical examination, the following options are available to remove the restrictions from the medical certificate:
The best option for many pilots is to pass one of the FAA-approved alternative pseudoisochromatic tests. The attached sheet from the Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners lists the optional tests and requirements for satisfactory completion based upon the class of medical applied for. You can see the eye care specialist of your choice for the tests. It may take a few phone calls to locate the test you want to take. Ask the doctor to report the type of test and the results on office letterhead. Make a copy of the letter for your records and send the results to the FAA.
You will be issued an amended certificate without the night flight/color signal restriction. Accompanying the amended certificate will be a "letter of evidence" citing your successful completion of the color vision test. Keep that letter for future reference.
Some pilots may instead prefer to take the color signal light test at an FAA air traffic control tower. Successfully passing this test will also remove the night flying /color signal control restriction, but with an important change.
FAA medical certification policy has now eliminated the need for a waiver, or Statement of Demonstrated Ability (SODA) to be issued after the satisfactory completion of the signal light test. So, if you opt for the light signal test, the FAA will now issue you an unrestricted medical and the letter of evidence, but without the separate waiver certificate. Your agency medical file will still show a pathology code for color vision deficiency. For that reason, if you plan to fly for the airlines, it is still a good idea to try the first option before attempting the signal light test.
*NOTE: THE COLOR SIGNAL LIGHT TEST CAN BE TAKEN ONLY TWICE.
IF YOU FAIL THE COLOR SIGNAL LIGHT TEST, THE FAA MAY NOT ALLOW YOU TO TAKE ONE OF THE OTHER ALTERNATIVE TESTS FOR REMOVAL OF THE NIGHT FLIGHT RESTRICTION. TRY THE OTHER ALTERNATIVE COLOR PLATE TESTS FIRST!
To be prepared for the color signal light test, we suggest you visit the airport and ask the tower specialist to flash the color signals in your direction. Have someone with you who has "normal" color vision to confirm that you correctly identify the colors. The FAA Inspector's Handbook also allows the inspector to ask you to demonstrate the ability to read aeronautical charts, including colored airspace and ground terrain designations most commonly found on sectional charts. You may or may not be asked to do this in addition to the light signal test.
Call the Aeromedical Certification Division in Oklahoma City and request an authorization for the color signal light test. Indicate the FAA Flight Standards District Office you intend to visit. The FAA will issue an authorization letter to you and copy it to the FSDO. After receiving the letter, which is valid for 90 days, schedule the test with the FSDO. Avoid midday tests when the sun is directly overhead. Late afternoon or cloudy days are the best conditions to view the light signals. Some facilities will accommodate an after-hours appointment if you ask.
The Flight Standards inspector should forward the results to the FAA Aeromedical Certification Division, however, you may want to call the FAA yourself to make sure that occurs.
When you have demonstrated that you meet the color vision standards, you may upgrade your medical to a higher class without having to retake the tests.
To contact the FAA in Oklahoma City use the following address and phone:
Aerospace Medical Certification Division
(AAM-300)
FAA Civil Aerospace Medical Institute
6700 South MacArthur Blvd.
Oklahoma City, OK 73169
Phone 800/350-5286, 405/954-4821
I. CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS
All Classes: 14 CFR 67.103(c), 67.203(c), and 67.303(c)
***ability to perceive those colors necessary for the safe performance of airman duties.
II. EXAMINATION PROCEDURES
A. Equipment
1. Pseudoisochromatic plates. (American Optical Company [AOC], 1965 edition; AOC-HRR, 2nd edition; Dvorine, 2nd edition; Ishihara, 14-, 24- or 38-plate editions; or Richmond, 1983 edition, 1 5-plates).
2. Acceptable substitutes:
-Farnsworth Lantern
-Keystone Orthoscope.
-Keystone Telebinocular.
-LKC Technologies, Inc., APT-5 Color Vision Tester.
-OPTEC 2000 Vision Tester (Model Nos. 2000PM, 2000PAME, and 2000PI).
-Titmus Vision Tester.
-Titmus 11 Vision Tester (Model Nos. Tll and TIIS).
-Titmus 2 Vision Tester Model Nos. T2A and T2S).
B. Techniques
1. The test plates to be used for each of the approved pseudoisochromatic tests are:
Test -- Edition -- Plates
AOC -- 1965 -- 1/15
AOC-HRR -- 2nd -- 1/11
Dvorine -- 2nd -- 1/15
Ishihara -- 14-plate -- 1/11
Ishihara -- 24-plate -- 1/15
Ishihara -- 38-plate -- 1/21
Richmond -- 1983 -- 1/15
2. The following conditions should be ensured when testing with pseudoisochromatic plates:
a. The test book should be held 30 inches from the applicant.
b. Plates should be illuminated by at least 20-foot candles, preferably by a Macbeth Easel Lamp or a Verilux True Color Light (F1 5T8VLX).
c. Three seconds should be allowed for the applicant to interpret and respond to a given plate.
3. Testing procedures for the Farnsworth Lantern; Keystone; LKC Technologies, Inc.; OPTEC 2000, Titmus, Titmus II, and Titmus 2 Vision Testers accompany the instruments.
4. The results (normal or abnormal) should be recorded.
III. DISPOSITION
An applicant does not meet the color vision standard if testing reveals:
A. All Classes
1. Seven or more errors on plates 1-15 of the AOC (1965 edition) pseudoisochromatic plates.
2. AOC-HRR (second edition): Any error in test plates 7-11. Because the first 4 plates in the test book are for demonstration only, test plate 7 is actually the eleventh plate in the book. (See instruction booklet).
3. Seven or more errors on plates 1-15 of Dvorine pseudoisochromatic plates (second edition, 15 plates).
4. Six or more errors on plates 1-11 of the concise 14-plate edition of the Ishihara pseudoisochromatic plates. Seven or more errors on plates 1-15 of the 24-plate edition of Ishihara pseudoisochromatic plates. Nine or more errors on plates 1-21 of the 38-plate edition of Ishihara pseudoisochromatic plates.
5. Seven or more errors on plates 1-15 of the Richmond (1983 edition) pseudoisochromatic plates.
6. Farnsworth Lantern test: An average of more than one error per series of nine color pairs in series 2 and 3. (See instruction booklet).
7. Any errors in the six plates of the Titmus Vision Tester, the Titmus II Vision Tester, the Titmus 2 Vision Tester, the OPTEC 2000 Vision Tester, the Keystone Orthoscope, or Keystone Telebinocular.
8. LKC Technologies, Inc., APT-5 Color Vision Tester: The letter must be correctly identified in at least two of the three presentations of each test condition. (See APT-5 screening chart for FM-related testing in instruction booklet).
B. Certificate Limitation
If an applicant fails to meet the color vision standard as interpreted above but is otherwise qualified, the Examiner may issue a medical certificate bearing the limitation:
NOT VALID FOR NIGHT FLYING OR BY COLOR SIGNAL CONTROL.
c. Special Issuance of Medical Certificates
An applicant who holds a medical certificate bearing a color vision limitation may request reevaluation or a SODA under the special issuance section of Part 67 (14 CFR 67.401). This request should be in writing and should be directed to the Aeromedical Certification Division, AAM-300. If the applicant can perform the color vision tasks, the FM will issue a medical certificate without limitation with a SODA.
Demonstrating the ability to perform color vision tasks appropriate to the certificate applied for may entail a medical flight test or a signal light test. If a signal light test or medical flight test is required, the FAA will authorize the test. The signal light test may be given at any time during flight training. The medical flight test is most often required when an airman with borderline color vision wishes to upgrade a medical certificate.
If the airman does not pass the color vision test administered in the aviation medical examiner's office at the time of the FAA physical examination, the following options are available to remove the restrictions from the medical certificate:
The best option for many pilots is to pass one of the FAA-approved alternative pseudoisochromatic tests. The attached sheet from the Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners lists the optional tests and requirements for satisfactory completion based upon the class of medical applied for. You can see the eye care specialist of your choice for the tests. It may take a few phone calls to locate the test you want to take. Ask the doctor to report the type of test and the results on office letterhead. Make a copy of the letter for your records and send the results to the FAA.
You will be issued an amended certificate without the night flight/color signal restriction. Accompanying the amended certificate will be a "letter of evidence" citing your successful completion of the color vision test. Keep that letter for future reference.
Some pilots may instead prefer to take the color signal light test at an FAA air traffic control tower. Successfully passing this test will also remove the night flying /color signal control restriction, but with an important change.
FAA medical certification policy has now eliminated the need for a waiver, or Statement of Demonstrated Ability (SODA) to be issued after the satisfactory completion of the signal light test. So, if you opt for the light signal test, the FAA will now issue you an unrestricted medical and the letter of evidence, but without the separate waiver certificate. Your agency medical file will still show a pathology code for color vision deficiency. For that reason, if you plan to fly for the airlines, it is still a good idea to try the first option before attempting the signal light test.
*NOTE: THE COLOR SIGNAL LIGHT TEST CAN BE TAKEN ONLY TWICE.
IF YOU FAIL THE COLOR SIGNAL LIGHT TEST, THE FAA MAY NOT ALLOW YOU TO TAKE ONE OF THE OTHER ALTERNATIVE TESTS FOR REMOVAL OF THE NIGHT FLIGHT RESTRICTION. TRY THE OTHER ALTERNATIVE COLOR PLATE TESTS FIRST!
To be prepared for the color signal light test, we suggest you visit the airport and ask the tower specialist to flash the color signals in your direction. Have someone with you who has "normal" color vision to confirm that you correctly identify the colors. The FAA Inspector's Handbook also allows the inspector to ask you to demonstrate the ability to read aeronautical charts, including colored airspace and ground terrain designations most commonly found on sectional charts. You may or may not be asked to do this in addition to the light signal test.
Call the Aeromedical Certification Division in Oklahoma City and request an authorization for the color signal light test. Indicate the FAA Flight Standards District Office you intend to visit. The FAA will issue an authorization letter to you and copy it to the FSDO. After receiving the letter, which is valid for 90 days, schedule the test with the FSDO. Avoid midday tests when the sun is directly overhead. Late afternoon or cloudy days are the best conditions to view the light signals. Some facilities will accommodate an after-hours appointment if you ask.
The Flight Standards inspector should forward the results to the FAA Aeromedical Certification Division, however, you may want to call the FAA yourself to make sure that occurs.
When you have demonstrated that you meet the color vision standards, you may upgrade your medical to a higher class without having to retake the tests.
To contact the FAA in Oklahoma City use the following address and phone:
Aerospace Medical Certification Division
(AAM-300)
FAA Civil Aerospace Medical Institute
6700 South MacArthur Blvd.
Oklahoma City, OK 73169
Phone 800/350-5286, 405/954-4821
I. CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS
All Classes: 14 CFR 67.103(c), 67.203(c), and 67.303(c)
***ability to perceive those colors necessary for the safe performance of airman duties.
II. EXAMINATION PROCEDURES
A. Equipment
1. Pseudoisochromatic plates. (American Optical Company [AOC], 1965 edition; AOC-HRR, 2nd edition; Dvorine, 2nd edition; Ishihara, 14-, 24- or 38-plate editions; or Richmond, 1983 edition, 1 5-plates).
2. Acceptable substitutes:
-Farnsworth Lantern
-Keystone Orthoscope.
-Keystone Telebinocular.
-LKC Technologies, Inc., APT-5 Color Vision Tester.
-OPTEC 2000 Vision Tester (Model Nos. 2000PM, 2000PAME, and 2000PI).
-Titmus Vision Tester.
-Titmus 11 Vision Tester (Model Nos. Tll and TIIS).
-Titmus 2 Vision Tester Model Nos. T2A and T2S).
B. Techniques
1. The test plates to be used for each of the approved pseudoisochromatic tests are:
Test -- Edition -- Plates
AOC -- 1965 -- 1/15
AOC-HRR -- 2nd -- 1/11
Dvorine -- 2nd -- 1/15
Ishihara -- 14-plate -- 1/11
Ishihara -- 24-plate -- 1/15
Ishihara -- 38-plate -- 1/21
Richmond -- 1983 -- 1/15
2. The following conditions should be ensured when testing with pseudoisochromatic plates:
a. The test book should be held 30 inches from the applicant.
b. Plates should be illuminated by at least 20-foot candles, preferably by a Macbeth Easel Lamp or a Verilux True Color Light (F1 5T8VLX).
c. Three seconds should be allowed for the applicant to interpret and respond to a given plate.
3. Testing procedures for the Farnsworth Lantern; Keystone; LKC Technologies, Inc.; OPTEC 2000, Titmus, Titmus II, and Titmus 2 Vision Testers accompany the instruments.
4. The results (normal or abnormal) should be recorded.
III. DISPOSITION
An applicant does not meet the color vision standard if testing reveals:
A. All Classes
1. Seven or more errors on plates 1-15 of the AOC (1965 edition) pseudoisochromatic plates.
2. AOC-HRR (second edition): Any error in test plates 7-11. Because the first 4 plates in the test book are for demonstration only, test plate 7 is actually the eleventh plate in the book. (See instruction booklet).
3. Seven or more errors on plates 1-15 of Dvorine pseudoisochromatic plates (second edition, 15 plates).
4. Six or more errors on plates 1-11 of the concise 14-plate edition of the Ishihara pseudoisochromatic plates. Seven or more errors on plates 1-15 of the 24-plate edition of Ishihara pseudoisochromatic plates. Nine or more errors on plates 1-21 of the 38-plate edition of Ishihara pseudoisochromatic plates.
5. Seven or more errors on plates 1-15 of the Richmond (1983 edition) pseudoisochromatic plates.
6. Farnsworth Lantern test: An average of more than one error per series of nine color pairs in series 2 and 3. (See instruction booklet).
7. Any errors in the six plates of the Titmus Vision Tester, the Titmus II Vision Tester, the Titmus 2 Vision Tester, the OPTEC 2000 Vision Tester, the Keystone Orthoscope, or Keystone Telebinocular.
8. LKC Technologies, Inc., APT-5 Color Vision Tester: The letter must be correctly identified in at least two of the three presentations of each test condition. (See APT-5 screening chart for FM-related testing in instruction booklet).
B. Certificate Limitation
If an applicant fails to meet the color vision standard as interpreted above but is otherwise qualified, the Examiner may issue a medical certificate bearing the limitation:
NOT VALID FOR NIGHT FLYING OR BY COLOR SIGNAL CONTROL.
c. Special Issuance of Medical Certificates
An applicant who holds a medical certificate bearing a color vision limitation may request reevaluation or a SODA under the special issuance section of Part 67 (14 CFR 67.401). This request should be in writing and should be directed to the Aeromedical Certification Division, AAM-300. If the applicant can perform the color vision tasks, the FM will issue a medical certificate without limitation with a SODA.
Demonstrating the ability to perform color vision tasks appropriate to the certificate applied for may entail a medical flight test or a signal light test. If a signal light test or medical flight test is required, the FAA will authorize the test. The signal light test may be given at any time during flight training. The medical flight test is most often required when an airman with borderline color vision wishes to upgrade a medical certificate.
-John
Join Date: Jul 2003
Location: Port Townsend,WA. USA
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test
I passed the signal light test from the control tower back in 1974. It was a difficult to see any difference with the white and green.
Practice looking at nav lights on small planes as they fly over at night.
Just got a medical yesterday and the doctor did not have the dot charts that are hard to pass. This doctor just had some red, green and white plastic cards and said "what color is this".
If you have already failed the color chart test, then I would get a statement of demonstrated ability as suggested above. That should be good for life, dont loose it.
Practice looking at nav lights on small planes as they fly over at night.
Just got a medical yesterday and the doctor did not have the dot charts that are hard to pass. This doctor just had some red, green and white plastic cards and said "what color is this".
If you have already failed the color chart test, then I would get a statement of demonstrated ability as suggested above. That should be good for life, dont loose it.
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: Glasgow
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I've just discovered this thread, excellent stuff and thanks are due to all contributors......
I had the cvd/lantern stuff with the CAA in the mid-nineties - eventually settled for a restricted Class 3 (as was), day flights vfr only and a JAR PPL - subsequently gave up commercial flying ambitions.
Bad medicine.....thanks for an extremely enlightening post...there is no doubt that the "standard" tests are often far from uniformly conducted.
In my own case I sat (and passed!) the Holmes-Wright lantern test about three years ago (at the behest of the RAF....long story!!) I was then categorised CP3 (Colour safe?) This raises an interesting point (or two!)
1. Are the pass/fail points the same for HW and Farlant?? In your post you mention a pass as CP2 and a fail CP3?
2. If the RAF regard me as CP3, would the CAA accept a HW pass as CP2 for civilian purposes?
Any info/opinions gratefully received!!
Thanks,
I had the cvd/lantern stuff with the CAA in the mid-nineties - eventually settled for a restricted Class 3 (as was), day flights vfr only and a JAR PPL - subsequently gave up commercial flying ambitions.
Bad medicine.....thanks for an extremely enlightening post...there is no doubt that the "standard" tests are often far from uniformly conducted.
In my own case I sat (and passed!) the Holmes-Wright lantern test about three years ago (at the behest of the RAF....long story!!) I was then categorised CP3 (Colour safe?) This raises an interesting point (or two!)
1. Are the pass/fail points the same for HW and Farlant?? In your post you mention a pass as CP2 and a fail CP3?
2. If the RAF regard me as CP3, would the CAA accept a HW pass as CP2 for civilian purposes?
Any info/opinions gratefully received!!
Thanks,
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: Glasgow
Posts: 13
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Received 0 Likes
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I've just discovered this thread, excellent stuff and thanks are due to all contributors......
I had the cvd/lantern stuff with the CAA in the mid-nineties - eventually settled for a restricted Class 3 (as was), day flights vfr only and a JAR PPL - subsequently gave up commercial flying ambitions.
Bad medicine.....thanks for an extremely enlightening post...there is no doubt that the "standard" tests are often far from uniformly conducted.
In my own case I sat (and passed!) the Holmes-Wright lantern test about three years ago (at the behest of the RAF....long story!!) I was then categorised CP3 (Colour safe?) This raises an interesting point (or two!)
1. Are the pass/fail points the same for HW and Farlant?? In your post you mention a pass as CP2 and a fail CP3?
2. If the RAF regard me as CP3, would the CAA accept a HW pass as CP2 for civilian purposes?
Any info/opinions gratefully received!!
Thanks,
I had the cvd/lantern stuff with the CAA in the mid-nineties - eventually settled for a restricted Class 3 (as was), day flights vfr only and a JAR PPL - subsequently gave up commercial flying ambitions.
Bad medicine.....thanks for an extremely enlightening post...there is no doubt that the "standard" tests are often far from uniformly conducted.
In my own case I sat (and passed!) the Holmes-Wright lantern test about three years ago (at the behest of the RAF....long story!!) I was then categorised CP3 (Colour safe?) This raises an interesting point (or two!)
1. Are the pass/fail points the same for HW and Farlant?? In your post you mention a pass as CP2 and a fail CP3?
2. If the RAF regard me as CP3, would the CAA accept a HW pass as CP2 for civilian purposes?
Any info/opinions gratefully received!!
Thanks,