Can you get a SODA for bad eyesight?

[Spatel44]

Hi, I want to get a first class medical but dont have the best eyesight. Currently, I can see 20/20 with corrective lenses but am worried that in the future my vision will get worse and theres a slight chance I may not be able to correct it fully to 20/20 which would create a problem for me holding a first class medical continuosly. Would I be able to get a SODA if I have slightly worse vision than 20/20? Thanks a lot to whomever is able to respond.

 

[FlightSurgeon]

Good Morning Spatel44,

It is possible to take a Medical Flight Test with your FSDO if you do not meet 1st class vision standards. Typically this is done if one of the two eyes does not meet vision standards. I would think that if both eyes dropped below standards that would make it harder to test for a SODA but they are considered on a case by case basis.

Warm Regards,

Aaron Florkowski, MD
FAA designated Senior AME
www.kansascityame.com

 

[ahw01]

yes I've done 2x MFTs, one for 3rd class then one for 1st class. straightforward, just needs a deferred medical and opthalmologist report followed by paperwork issued via the CAMI etc then the MFT.

Alex.

 

[derg]

I have a SODA for 20/30 uncorrectable in my right eye. I've had it since high school!

 

[ahw01]

I have a SODA for 20/30 uncorrectable in my right eye. I've had it since high school!

Did they write it in runes?

 

[derg]

Did they write it in runes?

"I want you to know it was me".

 

[woodreau]

We have an FO here who is legally blind in one eye but holds a SODA for it so he’s employed.

 

[ahw01]

We have an FO here who is legally blind in one eye but holds a SODA for it so he’s employed.

If you hold a class 1 with SODA it’s good everywhere