Vision is something we tend to take for granted in our everyday lives. It’s not something that really affects us. If we start having vision problems, we can easily just get eyeglasses, contact lenses, or LASIK eye surgery, and things will be right as rain again.
However, some occupations have strict requirements when it comes to vision. For example, you’re not exactly the best lifeguard around if you can’t even see a person drowning from a distance. And surgeons and paramedics need steady vision as well as steady hands to save the lives of their patients.
Another one of these occupations is that of an airline pilot. These people need to have excellent vision to safely navigate through the skies. They need to have great spatial intelligence to safely transport people from one point to another. In fact, many airline pilots have to go through arduous vision tests before even being granted a license!
What are Vision Requirements for Pilots?
Vision requirements will depend on what kind of pilot you are. Military pilots, in general, tend to have stricter rules for vision acuity. For example, Air Force pilots need uncorrected near visual acuity of 20/30 or better, uncorrected distance visual acuity of 20/70 or better, and corrected distance visual acuity of 20/20 or better. Plus, they need to have normal color vision and minimal chronic eye conditions such as astigmatism.
Additionally, you will be disqualified from certain roles in the Air Force if you do not fit the vision requirements, even with perfect corrected vision. It might seem sad, but having a perfect vision can make all the difference between life and death on the battlefield.
Airline pilots, on the other hand, get more leeway. You need to have distance visual acuity of 20/20 or better, corrected or uncorrected; intermediate visual acuity of 20/40 or better, corrected or uncorrected; near visual acuity of 20/40, corrected or uncorrected; satisfactory color vision.
And, unlike the Air Force, having corrective gadgets or getting the best LASIK eye surgery won’t disqualify you from the position.
Can Airline Pilots Get LASIK?
Sure, you can! In fact, many patients at our LASIK eye clinic near Anaheim have either been airline pilots or aspiring airline pilots. As you can see in the section above, as long as you meet the minimal vision requirements, whether corrected or uncorrected, you can become an airline pilot.
And, while eyeglasses or contacts have become more acceptable as of late, you should still consider getting LASIK. There are many good reasons why!
Firstly, you’ll get the perfect vision for years to come. Say goodbye to eyeglasses or contact lenses for the next few decades. Secondly, having freedom from eyeglasses or contact lenses is just much better when you’re flying—you won’t have to worry about contact lens hygiene on long-distance flights or clean eyeglasses when you’re trying to find the runway.
Lastly, it’ll be cheaper in the long run. LASIK is a one-time investment while eyeglasses and contact lenses are ongoing.
How Can I Get LASIK?
Well, the first thing you’ll need to do is find a LASIK eye professional. This person should preferably have lots of experience in the field—the more successful surgeries they’ve performed, the better equipped they are to perform your surgery! They should also have the latest technology on hand—LASIK is an ever-changing field that needs top-of-the-line equipment to perform the best surgeries possible.
Besides finding a good LASIK eye surgeon, you need to be qualified for corrective eye surgery. You’ll need to be at least 18 years old or older, have a stable prescription for at least two years, be free of eye conditions that can hinder recovery, like dry eye syndrome, and have a thick cornea. So, before you jump the gun and get surgery, it’s important to learn as much as you can about the procedure.
Just remember that if you do plan on taking LASIK before applying as an airline pilot that airlines require a few months’ recovery and stabilization. Continental Airlines, for example, requires a six-week healing period, while American Airlines requires twelve. Please check the requirements before applying!
Benefits Of LASIK Eye Surgery for Aviators
For aspiring pilots, the dream of navigating the skies often goes hand-in-hand with the desire for perfect vision. While corrective lenses can be effective, LASIK eye surgery offers a unique advantage – the freedom from glasses and contacts that can significantly enhance your piloting experience and potentially boost your career prospects. Here’s why LASIK in Los Angeles is a compelling option for aspiring aviators:
Uncompromised Vision for Critical Tasks
A pilot’s job demands exceptional visual acuity. Clear vision is paramount for safe and efficient flight operations, from scanning instrument panels to spotting distant landmarks during navigation. LASIK corrects common refractive errors like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism, leading to sharper, more precise vision. This translates to quicker reaction times, improved depth perception, and a clearer view of critical flight data.
Enhanced Situational Awareness
Pilots rely heavily on situational awareness – the ability to perceive and understand everything happening in their environment. Glasses or contacts can create blind spots or become fogged at inopportune moments, potentially hindering situational awareness. LASIK in Los Angeles eliminates these concerns, allowing pilots to maintain a clear and unobstructed view of the entire cockpit and surrounding airspace. This heightened awareness is crucial for making quick decisions and responding effectively to unexpected situations.
Freedom from Limitations During Flight
Traditional corrective lenses come with limitations during flight. Glasses can slip or fog up due to altitude changes, while contact lenses can dry out or become dislodged, causing discomfort and potentially impacting vision. LASIK removes these worries, enabling pilots to focus solely on the task without the distractions or inconveniences associated with corrective lenses.
Increased Safety and Reduced Risk
Any factor that compromises a pilot’s vision can elevate safety risks. Glasses that fall off during turbulence or contact lenses that dry out during a long flight can create potentially dangerous situations. LASIK minimizes these risks by providing a permanent solution for clear vision, enhancing overall flight safety, and reducing the chance of incidents related to vision impairment.
Meeting Airline Vision Requirements
While vision requirements vary slightly between airlines, most have strict standards for pilots. These standards often involve uncorrected visual acuity within a specific range. LASIK in Los Angeles can help aspiring pilots meet these requirements by correcting vision problems and eliminating the need for corrective lenses. This opens doors to a broader range of piloting opportunities across various airlines.
Improved Comfort and Focus
Piloting can be a demanding profession, both physically and mentally. Wearing glasses or contacts for extended periods can lead to discomfort, headaches, and eye strain. LASIK eliminates these issues, allowing pilots to focus solely on flying without the distraction of uncomfortable lenses. This can significantly enhance comfort and mental clarity during long flights, improving performance and making the experience more enjoyable.
Long-Term Investment in Your Career
LASIK is a one-time investment that can positively impact your entire piloting career. The freedom from glasses and contacts improves your flying experience and demonstrates your commitment to your vision health, which can be a valuable asset in a competitive field like aviation.
Making the Decision: Consult an Ophthalmologist
LASIK is a safe and effective procedure for many people, but it’s crucial to consult a qualified ophthalmologist to determine your candidacy. They can assess your eye health, discuss your piloting aspirations, and determine if LASIK in Los Angeles is right for you.
Conclusion
By choosing LASIK, aspiring pilots can take a significant step towards achieving their dream of soaring through the skies with exceptional vision and peace of mind. The benefits of this procedure go beyond convenience, potentially enhancing your safety, career prospects, and overall flying experience.
So, contact a LASIK eye professional today to see what the procedure can do for you as an airline pilot or any other career that requires perfect vision. Luckily for you, many LASIK eye clinics, such as the Excel Laser Vision Institute in Orange County, offer free consultations. Here, you can ask as many questions as you can and get expert advice from board-certified surgeons such as Dr. Ferzaad Moosa.
You can reach Excel Laser Vision Institute by calling (310) 905-8622 or filling out an online form here.
