If you are a Class One pilot who wears spectacles or contact lenses for distance vision the comprehensive eye check regulations are only required for those pilots whose prescription exceeds certain limits (3 dioptres). If you have a VDL limitation on your certificate please contact your AME for further instructions. Pilots over the age of 50 who use glasses are however advised to continue to visit their optometrist at least every 2 years for a routine eye examination which should include eye pressure measurement (Tonometry) Pilots who require glasses for reading only (VNL) do not require the comprehensive eye check but are also still advised to see their optician every two years for a routine check.

Visual Requirements for Joint Aviation Authorities Medical Examination. In summary these are;- Class 1 Initial

1. Minimum 1 year since PRK Corneal surgery. Treatment by LASIK may be less than 1 year but subject to a detailed ophthalmic assessment.

2. Maximum pre-operatice refraction of 5 dioptres.

3. Maximum diurnal variation of 0.75D.

4. No post-operative complications.

5. No increase in glare or contrast sensitivity

Current Class 1 pilots should NOT contemplate having corneal surgery performed. Class 1 Revalidation/Renewal There are new rules for the maximum refractive error. Please ask for advice. Class 2 Initial Refractive surgery is acceptable as for Class 1 (see above) but with a maximum pre-operative refractive error of up to +5 or -8 dioptres. A condition called Keratoconus cannot be certified, and is disqualifying. Class 2 Revalidation/Renewal Maximum refractive error up to +5 or -8 dioptres. Keratoconus is acceptable for re-validation if the visual requirements are met and a 6-monthly review by an ophthalmologist is undertaken. The pilot should report no problems with night driving in order to be re-validated.