Hey Guys

I am a student pilot currently perusing my instrument.

I have a defect vision of 20/40 on my left eye, which was impossible for all the doctor's I went too, to correct. I got an FAA SODA waiver for that and I do privilege a First Class Medical certificate, Unrestricted (but must wear glasses).

I mean is that a negative to have for being a pilot in bigger aircrafts/airlines like the Emirates or Singapore or even the Military.

Anybody has any info to share.

 

As for the military, I believe it will disqualify you. The navy/USMC/USCG will require 20/20 with no correction (some laser surgery is allowed). The USAF/US Army will requir 20/20 with minimal or no correction. I suppose it might be possible to get a waiver for military flying, but I highly doubt it.

Be advised that your FAA medical is only good in the US. For any of the desireable foriegn airlines, they will do their own exam and it will most likely be more thorough and exacting than in the US. I suspect that you might have a hard time with most or all of them.

There are some third world airlines which might accept a US medical, or might have very lax or no standards at all...but they are probably not good places to work.

The good news is that if you hold an FAA first class, without any restrictions or waivers (corrective lens are OK) then you will not have any trouble at most US airlines. The good thing about a SODA is that it is between you, the FAA, and the AME who issues your medical...they do not normally appear on the medical. Many US airlines just accept an FAA first class at face value with no exam.

 

That can vary widely (and wildly!) depending on the country and demand. You're so far away from that situation (experience-wise) that it's a little early to worry about it - although there's nothing wrong with looking "forward". If you like to fly, then fly. Just keep your day job. Specifically, perhaps some Emirates and Singapore types can chime in here on what their medical was like. True regarding the third world, at least right now. Things can change.

Many ask if you have a "waiver", though, and I strongly suggest you answer honestly. They WILL check your FAA file.

IMHO (take it for what it's worth ) the economy will turn around and they'll be a strong demand for regional f/o's, at least. If that's the case your SODA won't be much of a hindrance.

 

I know the military does give out waivers, but i dont wheather it is a tough one to get or not. I hope they take performance for waiver consideration than just follow the rules.

Ow yea, i dont mind anywhere as long as am in the air. I was born and brought up in all sections of the world so am sure that wont put me off, but is it like that will i be the underdog when comes to big aviation because of my waiver sheets. Are there other pilots with waivers that got through with any because of thier performance valued.

 

Yea i know its far away bud, but its better to know my limitations all the way than to take it all for sudden at that time.



Ooww yea, thats like the last thing i wanna do, sneek into a job. I mean if i have 10000 hrs of experience in a required type, and i do the meet the experience level flamboyantly; Will my waiver kill my job experience at that interview. Have you ever came across an experience like that.

 

Smart man. Anyone who starts an vaiation career without his medical ducks all in a row is a fool.




It all depends on the company. Usually with medical issues, it will be pass/fail...they will not allow additional experience to offset a medical deficiency. But there are many employers who will take an FAA First class at face value...you will be able to get a job somewhere. Just be aware that there are some employes who might disqualify you, regardless of qualifications.