Hearing Aids and the FAA medical

[gotWXdagain]

I think I have a good idea of what the answer here is, but before I pull the trigger, I’d like to make sure I know what I’m in for [emoji2371]

After three decades of use and abuse, it doesn’t take alot of noise or distance for me to have to start leaning in and “what??” is starting to get more common, so I’m looking at hearing aids. My understanding is that if I do go that route, it shouldn’t be a big deal to just bring them into my next exam and if I need them to pass the hearing test I’d get the limitation stating audio amplification is required? Or will it be more involved than that?

Thanks!

 

[DE727UPS]

I asked my AME before I got mine if there would be any issues and he said no. He didn't mention anything about a limitation, so I'm not sure about that. That said, my hearing is good enough that I can pass the conversational test. I don't wear the hearing aides much. In a social setting, like a restaurant or bar, they are horrible. They amplify the background noise to the point I'm better off without them. I never wear them flying. With the headset on I can hear fine. Just keep turning it up as necessary. I do like them in a quiet environment but all in all they are just too much of a hassle to bother with. Luckily, the company insurance paid for them. Had I spent my own money I think I'd be pretty disappointed in my decision. That said, I didn't test them out in real world conditions before pulling the trigger. Just in the audiologist's office. I would highly recommend taking time to test out different units in different situations.

 

[gotWXdagain]

I asked my AME before I got mine if there would be any issues and he said no. He didn't mention anything about a limitation, so I'm not sure about that. That said, my hearing is good enough that I can pass the conversational test. I don't wear the hearing aides much. In a social setting, like a restaurant or bar, they are horrible. They amplify the background noise to the point I'm better off without them. I never wear them flying. With the headset on I can hear fine. Just keep turning it up as necessary. I do like them in a quiet environment but all in all they are just too much of a hassle to bother with. Luckily, the company insurance paid for them. Had I spent my own money I think I'd be pretty disappointed in my decision. That said, I didn't test them out in real world conditions before pulling the trigger. Just in the audiologist's office. I would highly recommend taking time to test out different units in different situations.

If you can’t pass the hearing test without them there’s a limitation that says “Audio amplification required” or something similar. Thanks for the help!

 

[CFI A&P]

I think I have a good idea of what the answer here is, but before I pull the trigger, I’d like to make sure I know what I’m in for [emoji2371]

After three decades of use and abuse, it doesn’t take alot of noise or distance for me to have to start leaning in and “what??” is starting to get more common, so I’m looking at hearing aids. My understanding is that if I do go that route, it shouldn’t be a big deal to just bring them into my next exam and if I need them to pass the hearing test I’d get the limitation stating audio amplification is required? Or will it be more involved than that?

Thanks!

If that doesn't work out, be sure to join these aviators.

Welcome

www.deafpilots.org

 

[FlightSurgeon]

gotWXdagain you are correct, if you can not meet standards without hearing aids but are able to with hearing aids you will see the restriction

VALID ONLY WITH USE OF HEARING AMPLIFICATION

Note that headphones are considered a form of hearing amplification.

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