Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners

Decision Considerations - Aerospace Medical Dispositions
Item 31. Eyes - General

Common Conditions and Course of Action
Disease/ConditionClassEvaluation DataDisposition
Amblyopia (Lazy eye)AllSee disposition tableSee disposition table (PDF)
Congenital or acquired conditions (whether acute or chronic), of either eye or adnexa that may interfere with visual functions, may progress to that degree, or may be aggravated by flying (tumors and ptosis obscuring the pupil, acute inflammatory disease of the eyes and lids, or keratoconus.)AllProvide completed FAA Form 8500-7 Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report

For keratoconus, include if available results of imaging studies such as kertatometry, videokeratography, etc., with clinical correlation

Note: applicant should be at best corrected visual acuity before evaluation
Requires FAA Decision
Diplopia (Double Vision)AllSee disposition tableSee disposition table (PDF)
PterygiumAllDocument findings in Item 60If less than 50% of the cornea and not effecting central vision - Issue

Otherwise - Requires FAA Decision
Any ophthalmic pathology reflecting a serious systemic disease (e.g., diabetic and hypertensive retinopathy)AllSubmit all pertinent medical information and current status report. (If applicable, see Diabetes and Hypertensive Protocols)Requires FAA Decision
Last updated: Wednesday, August 26, 2026