Hi all,

I'm currently holding a JAA PPL and would like to go for a US ATPL. Medical class II examination back in Europe revealed no health problems, I have 20/20 vision in each eye wearing my glasses, but my prescription is rather strong:

R -5.00 -2.50 9°
L -6.00 -2.25 172°

This prescription has not or only marginally changed during the last two decades.

Now, I read the FAA regulations for a class I medical and could not come up with any restrictions on the prescription strength. As long as the examined person has got 20/20 in each eye, everything should be fine.

Really?

Is there any kind of unofficial agreement or undocumented practice among medical examiners to deny a class I certificate beyond a certain prescription strength?

What about the airlines?
I heard of European airlines not even considering job applicants which are beyond a certain prescription strength even if they officially hold a JAA medical I.
Are there such rules with US airlines as well? Will they reject job applicants exceeding a certain prescription strength?

Thanks for bearing with me

bpcw