I've heard that you can become a pilot for the military WITHOUT having to have 20/20 vision. Is this accurate?

Question

My whole life I've wanted to become a pilot, but I don't have 20/20 vision. I've read on some sites that you can get in if you already have your pilot's license etc. but they really prefer you to have 20/20 vision.

so here's the deal, I don't. Is it possible for me to become a air force/military pilot WITHOUT having 20/20 vision?

Answer 1

not so. they let me in with 20/15.  hahahaa. sorry. seriously. no matter what you read hear, pay little attention when making career decisions. i've seen so many wildass guess that where wrong here it's no longer amusing to me. call a recruiter and even then get an official document showing all the requirements for that branch. good luck.

Answer 2

According to the latest AF regs, and my flight surgeon bud:

Vision

Pilot 20/70 correctable to 20/20.  It's been this way for almost 5 years now.  Doesn't matter what airframe etc, the requirement's the requirement.  No colorblindness, astigmatism or nightblindness.   If you desire to surgically correct your vision do NOT do LASIK.  That will disqualify you.  PRK can be accepted.  I would talk with a flight surgeon before doing this though.

USN/USMC:  20/40 correctable 20/20.

That's it.

If you have any other questions about Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training, or commissioning programs, please PM me.

Don't worry about glasses, I wore 'em for 13 years in the back of F4s.  It is NOT a problem...

EDIT:  See I didn't answer your question about a pilot's license.  Statistically, students who already have a  PPL have a lower washout rate, and routinely score a higher class ranking (which helps you get the jet you want) than those who don't.  Followed closely behind are:  those with student licenses, glider licenses, and have civilian instruction time.  This is a huge plus for you when your package goes to the flying training selection board.  That's why it's important.

Answer 3

No for anything fun. They have so many candidates with perfect vision that they don't need any others. If we ever get into a major conflict, or another cold war, then they would take you.

Cargo planes can be flown, but thats a pretty boring job.

Answer 4

Correctable to 20/20 yes. (contacts or glasses)

My brother is an AF C-17 pilot. Wears glasses

I

Answer 5

listen to Johnny boy

he is very right indeed.

without 20/20 vision, it is less likely that you will get chosen.

For fighter pilots, if your vision is not 20/20, you will need to get it corrected by laser PRK treatment (LASIK is no good). glasses are a no-go because they may fall off during high G maneuvers

for a transport or refueling pilot, they may let you on with glasses ( I know C-130 pilots who fly with glasses)

Again, your chances are greatly reduced if you do not have 20/20 vision uncorrected, even if you do get it treated by laser, they will still go for the natural people with 20/20 vision because laser correction can have different side effects like color blindness (especially at night) and the treatment might not work for any prolonged period of time.