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Can I be an Air Force pilot with bad eyesight.?

Fighter pilot

military aviation pilot air-force
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Kim’s Answer

What are the vision requirements if I hope to be an Air Force Pilot?
Pilots must have normal color vision, near visual acuity of 20/30 without correction, distance visual acuity of no worse than 20/70 in each eye correctable to 20/20 and meet other refraction, accommodation and astigmatism requirements. Corrective eye surgery may also disqualify applicants for pilot or other specific roles.

In addition to vision requirements, becoming an Air Force Pilot requires you to meet strict physical, medical and academic requirements. A final determination on your eligibility will be determined by working with a recruiter through the full application process.

https://www.airforce.com/careers/aviation-and-flight/pilot#:~:text=What%20are%20the%20vision%20requirements,refraction%2C%20accommodation%20and%20astigmatism%20requirements.

Oliver, it looks like the odds are against you. I would suggest if you are told you don't qualify, that you explore related careers, such as drone operator.

Kim
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Fred’s Answer

I would suggest you look on the Air Force's website, or speak to a recruiter. Generally, you should go to a primary source for things like this.
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the help. Oliver
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Candra’s Answer

My son has just begun his journey at Aviation school. I'm aware there's a specific Aviation medical exam that's necessary to qualify as a pilot. Interestingly, you don't need to be part of any Aviation program to take this test. Therefore, it could be a smart move to consider taking this exam ahead of time. This way, you'll gain a clearer insight into the health prerequisites required for flying.
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John’s Answer

The best answer is: it depends. Check with Air Force OFFICER recruiters for the most current regulations. Sometimes there are waivers that allow people who have had corrective surgery to pursue aerobatic flight duties.

There are many types if pilot in the military, not all require excellent natural eyesight. If you have poor eyesight and fighter aircraft are all that interest you, consider looking into positions like the US Navy's weapon systems officer. They fly in 2 seat fighter aircraft and operate weapons, radars, instruments, and other equipment from the back seat. These positions have much lower eyesight requirements and still put you in the seat of an aerobatic aircraft like the F/A-18F.
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Orlando’s Answer

Pursuing a career as an Air Force pilot with less than perfect vision might seem daunting, but it's not impossible. The Air Force does have rigorous vision standards for its pilots, covering areas such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. However, don't be disheartened. There are corrective solutions like eyeglasses or laser surgery that could be considered, although they come with certain waiting periods and limitations.

While it's true that waivers are not common, they are not unheard of. If your vision doesn't align with the standards, remember there are still plenty of other rewarding roles within the Air Force. You could become an Air Battle Manager, a Navigator, or even an RPA Pilot operating drones.

To keep your dream of flying alive, reach out to your local Air Force recruiting office. They can provide you with the most recent information on requirements, which are continually evolving. This is particularly true now, as the Air Force is actively seeking new pilots. So, keep your spirits high and remember, every challenge is an opportunity in disguise.
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George’s Answer

The short, direct answer: NO.

Longer, better answer: Know your eyesight numbers, and ask a Recruiter about qualifications.
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