Decision Considerations - Aerospace Medical Dispositions
Item 50. Distant Vision

1. For all classes of medical certificate, when corrective lenses are required to meet any of the visual acuity standards, the AME must add the following limitation to the medical certificate:

   Must Use Corrective Lens(es) to meet vision standards at all required distances*

   Note: As of 12/28/2022 the single, simplified visual acuity limitation replaces previous visual acuity limitations.

2. An applicant who does not meet the vision standards or has an ocular muscle balance problem will require either a SODA or Special Issuance (SI) to cover the extent of the visual acuity defect.

3. To be considered for a SODA or SI, a current, detailed Clinical Progress Note from an eye specialist (optometrist or ophthalmologist) is required. It should specifically include the diagnosis; best corrected visual acuity in each eye separately, and both eyes together; must detail any pathology noted; if the condition(s) require(s) treatment; or expected to progress.

4. Any applicant eligible for a medical certificate through special issuance under these guidelines must pass a MFT, which may be arranged through the appropriate agency medical authority.

5. Amblyopia. In amblyopia ex anopsia, the visual acuity of one eye is decreased without presence of organic eye disease, usually because of strabismus or anisometropia in childhood.  In amblyopia ex anopsia, the visual acuity loss is recorded in Item 50 of FAA form 8500-8, and visual standards are applied as usual.  If the standards are not met, a current, detailed Clinical progress note (described above) or report of eye evaluation, FAA Form 8500-7, is required for consideration.