Expert: David Bidwell - 8/27/2004

Question
Dear Sir/Madam
This is Vikram Singh.I have completed my graduation and i am currently working in a bank but i want to develope my career in

Aviation .I had physics in my studies which i believe will be helpfull for my career point of view .But i have few enquires

before i can take step forward to my dream career .First i need the proper path and guidence, with which hope i am writing to

your prestigious deparment or company .Secondly i dont have 6/6 eye sight which i believe could be the only problem laying in

my way and its major .Well what i want to ask is if i could clear all the written or preliminary exams and than i could get a

operation for my eyes .will that be consider medical fit for Aviation? well if no what should i do to pursue this career .It

has come to my limelight that a persone with low sight can fly cargo plans atleast or there are some aviation professions

which dont require perfect eye sight but one with manageable eye sight can be recruited for the job.I would also be

interested if ypu could tell me about other professions in aviation even jobs at control room.I would really apperciate if u

could help me out with my problem and guide me to right direction .Please reply
                                  Thank YOu  

Answer
Hello Vikram,
Most aviation careers do not require PERFECT eyesight.  There is a requirement for eye sight to obtain a commercial license.  It does not have to be 20/20! You do not say the specific condition of your eye sight so I can't advise.  I suggest that you contact the FAA medical division and talk to one of their medically trained people.  They can help you with specifics.  In order for you to work for pay as a pilot in the USA you must have a commercial certificate.  The job types are many: cargo pilot, corporate pilot, towing banners, flight instructor, charter pilot, ag pilot, jump plane pilot, salesman etc.  I hope I gave you the info that you needed.  For further info you might try the AOPA organization (www.aopa.org)
Good Luck,
Dave