Ask Captain Lim - Are pilot's medical examination the same all over the world?

I like your site a lot. Thank you for providing us with such a great site and lots of useful information.

I do have a few questions:

I am having trouble with nearsightedness. I read from your site that as long as the corrected vision is 20/20, I will have no problem passing the FAA 1st Class Medical Certificate. I am still waiting for the result (since I also have hyperactive thyroid but the doctor told me it shouldn't be a big problem as long as the I have proof from my doctor that it is under control). I am now doing my undergraduate degree in Sociology in the USA. I really hope that I can be an airline pilot if I can pass the 1st Class medical examination.

In the USA, the airlines follow the FAA regulations. What about the Aviation Authorities in Hong Kong, Australia and UK? Are there any big differences between the regulations - especially the eyesight requirements? I know that some airline requires uncorrected vision of 20/100 or better. (I don't know about my condition - I think I have about 200 degree nearsightedness). Do you know whether airlines like Cathay Pacific (my dream airline) has more stringent requirements? Would they allow their pilots to wear corrective lenses?

Do you know if there are any airline that provide cadet training in UK?

My father used to tell me that I couldn't be an airline pilot as I was short-sighted. Now, I know that I still might have a chance.

Thank you.

Pierre

Hi Pierre,

The FAA Class 1 medical certificate is generally applicable in the USA, but whilst some airlines around the world use the FAA guidelines (which is less stringent), some do not totally follow them. I cannot confirm whether Hong Kong, Australia or the United Kingdom are among those that adopt different standards. For details, you have to find out from the individual airlines yourself or look at the medical requirements in their advertisements.

I believe British Airways used to give flying scholarships to cadet pilots in the past but due to the financial constraint in the airline, they may have discontinued with this program. Write to them or search for this information in the Internet.