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If I have laser eye surgery, can I still apply to be an Apache pilot? Does the AAC accept it?

I am unsure about whether the army would accept me with my current eyesight (which is -1.50) and so I am considering laser eye surgery, however, I am unsure if the AAC accepts it. Would really appreciate your advice, thank you!

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  • 4 replies
  • 1401 views
  • Author: Daisy I.
  • Category: Eligibility advice, Medical
  • Date asked:
  • Last update:
  • K-
    Katie -. Staff Officer Projects For People

    Hi Daisy,

    The AAC can accept candidates who wear glasses, with a lens power between -0.75 to +1.75.

    Laser eye surgery is acceptable if done by PRK, LASEK or LASIK but the pre-surgery refraction must not exceed -5.00 to +2.00 diopters.

    However, Medical standards do change so it is best to contact your local recruiter, or fill out the interest form online and raise the question to them when they get back to you.

    I hope this helps.

    Katie

  • DI
    Daisy I. Candidate

    Thank you so much, this has been really helpful. I will fill out an interest form today!

  • Anonymous

    Hi Daisy,

    Thanks so much for your question.

    I completely echo what Katie has said in terms of the requirements for the AAC.

    I do know that there is a delay between having the procedure done and being allowed to start flying training so it's worth asking your local recruiter for more information about this as it could impact your plans. (I believe it's a two year delay.)

    I hope that helps. Best of luck with your application.

    Maddie

  • DI
    Daisy I. Candidate

    Thank you for informing me of the delay. I will definitely check with my local recruiter.

    I really appreciate the advice from both of you, it’s been really helpful!

    Many thanks,
    Daisy