FAA Approves Vision Correction Procedure for Pilots

Local Pilots Report Great Improvement in Vision and Comfort While Flying

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (October 19, 2005) – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced earlier this month that it has established a protocol for airplane pilots wanting to reduce their dependence on reading glasses by having the NearVision CK (conductive keratoplasty) treatment.

Local pilot Larry Sears received the CK treatment three years ago and is very supportive of the FAA’s recent action.  “It has been absolutely great,” Sears said.  “My corrected vision has allowed me to see well up-close and at distance without glasses.  While in the cockpit I’m able to read my charts up close, the control panel a little farther away and see well at a distance.”  Sears added that before the procedure he was often wearing reading glasses and sunglasses at the same time, which was very difficult.

“I was also uncomfortable flying at night when I was wearing glasses,” Sears said.  “Now, I’m much more confident with night flying.”

Sears’ eye surgeon, Dr. Daniel Durrie of Durrie Vision in Overland Park, Kan., was instrumental in the FAA approval.  Dr. Durrie wrote letters of explanation and submitted the results of clinical trials conducted on CK to the FAA.

“Certification by the FAA as a vision correction procedure for pilots validates the safety and value of CK,” Dr. Durrie said.  “Only the safest and most effective procedures obtain an FAA protocol and we’re thrilled that pilots can now enjoy the benefits of NearVision CK. “

FAA Protocol for Conductive Keratoplasty
U.S. pilots who are considering CK to improve their vision may now do so without losing their aeromedical certification for flying.  First, before considering CK, the pilot should check with his or her employer (if employed by the airlines) and/or flight medical examiner to determine if CK is an appropriate treatment option and if post-CK vision meets their individual requirements for flying. 

For details on certification requirements and the complete protocol for CK, Please visit the FAA website at www.faa.gov.

Durrie Vision is an internationally known laser and surgical vision correction center located at 5520 College Blvd. in Overland Park, Kan.  Durrie Vision provides state-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical capabilities and operates one of the most active eye surgery research centers in the world.