Can Airline Pilots Wear Glasses? 4 Options for Pilots

I hear the question all the time, can commercial pilots wear glasses? It’s a frequent concern from potential students.

And while there was a time when pilots had to have perfect vision without any corrective lenses, today anyone can become a pilot as long as their vision can be corrected to 20/20.

Airline Pilot Visual Requirements

Airline pilots must meet specific visual standards to ensure safety. They need to have good vision both with and without correction.

The FAA has published a number of standards all pilot’s must meet. Here is a summary of those requirements.

• Distance Vision: Pilots must have 20/20 vision in each eye. This can be achieved with glasses or contact lenses.
• Near Vision: For reading and instruments, pilots need 20/40 vision in each eye at 16 inches.
• Intermediate Vision: Pilots aged 50 and older must have 20/40 vision at 32 inches.

Pilots need to get their eyes checked regularly, and any changes in vision should be corrected immediately with appropriate eyewear. So yes, pilots wear glasses.

Corrective Lenses and Aviation Regulations

As mentioned above, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) sets specific vision standards for pilots. 

Pilots with refractive errors that affect their vision need to wear prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses.

In addition, air traffic controllers also have stringent requirements. They must demonstrate 20/20 distant vision and 20/40 near vision in each eye.

It’s a common misconception that wearing glasses disqualifies someone from becoming a pilot. Many pilots wear glasses around the world.

Using sunglasses is also essential for pilots to reduce sunlight effects, decrease eye fatigue, and protect their eyes from harmful radiation. You can find the best sunglasses for pilots here.

Types of Acceptable Corrective Lenses/Options

Airline pilots can use several types of corrective lenses to meet vision standards. According to the FAA standards, both eyeglasses and contact lenses are permitted for pilots.

Eyeglasses

Pilots with refractive errors that affect their distance vision must wear prescription eyeglasses. These glasses need to provide optimal visual acuity to maintain safety and performance during flights. When pilots wear glasses they must fit securely and should be comfortable underneath your headset.

Contact Lenses

Many pilots prefer contacts for their convenience and comfort. Contact lenses must meet the same vision standards as eyeglasses. This includes ensuring proper correction for both distance and near vision requirements.

Backup Eyewear

When pilots wear glasses it’s important they carry backup eyewear. In case of an emergency or discomfort with contacts, having an additional pair of prescription eyeglasses is crucial.

Corrective Surgery

Some pilots opt for corrective surgery, like LASIK, to eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. While this is an option, pilots must meet specific post-surgery vision standards to ensure continued compliance with the FAA regulations.

Type	Requirements	Additional Notes
Eyeglasses	20/20 distant vision, 20/40 near vision	Must provide optimal visual acuity
Contact Lenses	Same as eyeglasses	Considered for convenience
Backup Eyewear	Required for emergencies	Usually an extra pair of eyeglasses
Corrective Surgery	Must meet post-surgery vision standards	Option to eliminate need for lenses