Pilot LASIK FAQs

Does the FAA have any restrictions on LASIK or PRK?

No. First, second and third class pilots can fly without any medical restrictions after a successful surgery. You must report the surgery to the FAA (see information about FAA Form 8500-7 below).

Is a pilot required to report to the FAA that he or she has undergone LASIK or other laser eye surgery to correct vision?

Yes. The pilot must ensure that:

• The treating health care professional documents his or her determinations in the pilot's health care treatment record (see form information below);
• A copy of that record is immediately forwarded to the Aerospace Medical Certification Division in Oklahoma City; and
• A personal copy is retained.

The pilot may continue flight duties unless informed otherwise by the FAA or another disqualifying condition occurs.

What form do I need to resume flying?

A report of Eye Evaluation (FAA Form 8500-7) must be completed by the LASIK optometrist. The form is located online at: http://forms.faa.gov/forms/faa8500-7.pdf or RVC can provide a copy. Send the form to the Oklahoma address available in the form instructions.

How soon can I start flying again?

The FAA expects that a pilot will not resume piloting aircraft until his or her own treating health care professional determines:

• The post operative condition has stabilized;
• There have been no significant adverse effects or complications; and
• The person meets the appropriate FAA vision standards.

Depending on the optometrist's approval, the wait period is typically two weeks. Our optometrist will not evaluate your eyes for stability until after a minimum of two weeks.

If you are a professional pilot, your company may have other rules about when you can resume flying.