Starting a career as a pilot with an airline like easyJet is a dream for many. In addition to a passion for flying, candidates must meet academic, medical and practical requirements before applying. One of the most common myths among aspirants is that perfect vision without correction is mandatory. According to the easyJet website, it is possible to become a pilot even while wearing glasses, as long as established vision standards are met.
According to the same source, pilot candidates must be at least 18 years old and have academic qualifications equivalent to five GCSEs at grade C or higher, including mathematics, science and English. You must also obtain a Class 1 medical license, issued by EASA or CAA, and have the right to live and work in the United Kingdom, the European Union or Switzerland.
The publication adds that fluency in English, written and oral, is essential. Experiences in leadership, volunteer work and sport are valued and help to highlight the candidacy. The same source states that meeting pilots or maintaining contact with professionals in the field can offer valuable guidance for preparing a professional path.
Training and course choice
easyJet offers different training paths. One of them is the integrated Air Transport Pilot License (ATPL) course, on a full-time basis, lasting up to 18 months. According to the airline, upon completion, candidates can obtain specific training for the aircraft they will fly, such as the Airbus A320.
Another option is the Multicrew Pilot License (MPL), based on skills and training in simulators, allowing the candidate to become a co-pilot at the airline after 18 to 22 months of training. This training is carried out in partnership with CAE, in training centers equipped with state-of-the-art simulators and professional instructors.
Visual requirements and myths about wearing glasses
It states that one of the most persistent myths is the belief that only candidates with perfect uncorrected vision can become pilots. The truth is that candidates can wear glasses or contact lenses, as long as they meet the established medical requirements.
According to the annex to Decree-Law No. 250/2003, candidates must have a minimum visual acuity of 6/9 in each eye separately and 6/6 binocularly. Refractive errors cannot exceed certain limits, up to +3/-5 diopters, depending on the exam and candidate’s history. Conditions such as astigmatism, diplopia or significant defects in binocular vision are assessed individually and may lead to disability if not adequately corrected.
Glasses or contact lenses must allow optimal visual function and be available on reserve during the flight. According to the same Decree-Law, normal color perception is also required, verified using the Ishihara test or equivalent methods.
By following these rules, many aspiring pilots can make their dream of flying come true, even with the need for visual correction. Passenger safety is also never jeopardized when the pilot wears corrective glasses.
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