Cataracts and Glaucoma FAA Vision Standards

Cataracts and Glaucoma FAA Vision Standards: Will These Problems Ground Your Flying Dreams?

For many pilots, hearing the words cataract or glaucoma raises an immediate fear: “Does this mean I’ll lose my medical certificate?” These conditions are common as we age, but they don’t automatically mean the end of your flying career.

At our Omaha practice, we help pilots navigate FAA standards so they can keep doing what they love — safely and confidently.

FAA Standards for Cataracts

Cataracts cause the lens of the eye to become cloudy, leading to glare, halos, and reduced night vision. While this can interfere with flying, the FAA does allow pilots with cataracts to continue flying if vision still meets certification standards.

• Early cataracts: Pilots may fly with regular monitoring if their corrected vision still meets FAA requirements.

• After surgery: With modern cataract surgery, an artificial lens is implanted. Most pilots return to the cockpit once vision is stable and meets FAA standards.

• Lens types: Monofocal lenses are typically accepted without issue, while multifocal lenses may require a waiting period before certification is restored.

FAA Standards for Glaucoma

Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, often affecting peripheral vision — which is critical for scanning the skies. The FAA evaluates each case individually.

• Stable glaucoma: Pilots can usually remain certified if intraocular pressure is controlled, vision fields are stable, and there are no disqualifying side effects.

• Ongoing monitoring: FAA requires periodic reports from your eye doctor, ensuring your condition is stable and safe for flight.

• When it’s disqualifying: Severe visual field loss or uncontrolled glaucoma may prevent certification, but many pilots continue flying with proper treatment.

Why These Conditions Matter in the Cockpit

• Cataracts: Glare, halos, and reduced contrast sensitivity can make landing at night or in low visibility challenging.

• Glaucoma: Loss of side vision can make it harder to detect nearby aircraft or monitor instruments effectively.

Even if you can still “see well enough,” these subtle changes can impact safety — which is why regular eye exams matter for pilots.

How We Help Pilots in Omaha

At our practice, we combine aviation knowledge with medical expertise:

• FAA-compliant eye exams to assess vision at all required distances.

• Cataract co-management with trusted surgeons to restore clarity.

• Advanced glaucoma testing and treatment to keep vision stable.

• Clear documentation to help with FAA medical certification requirements.

Don’t let cataracts or glaucoma ground you. Schedule your aviation-focused eye exam in Omaha today and let us help you stay cleared for takeoff.