CASA Examinations in Fitzroy North
Fitzroy North Eye Centre proudly offers Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) examinations conducted by our credentialed optometrists. We maintain the necessary clinical competencies and knowledge of CASA's requirements to provide accurate and reliable vision assessments, exams, and care for your aviation needs. Your safety in the skies is our priority. Please ensure that you book this with Sally Doyle.
What Is a CASA Exam?
A CASA examination is critical to ensuring the safety of aviation activities in Australia. It's required for pilots holding a Class 1 commercial licence and air traffic controllers with a Class 3 licence. During this exam, credentialed optometrists (COs) assess and certify the visual health and function of individuals involved in aviation. This includes checking their ability to perform crucial tasks like pre-flight checks, navigation, and reading instruments in the cockpit. CASA exams play a vital role in maintaining the highest safety standards in aviation.
Vision Requirements for Class 1 and Class 3 Licences
Flying safely requires sharp vision, and for commercial pilots, there are specific criteria set by the Civil Aviation Act. To qualify, pilots need:
- Distance Vision: Each eye should have a visual acuity of 6/9 or better, and both eyes should achieve 6/6 or better, with or without corrective lenses.
- Near Vision: The ability to read an N5 chart binocularly, within the 30 to 50cm range, with or without corrective lenses.
- Intermediate Vision: Pilots should be able to read an N14 chart binocularly, at a distance of 1 meter, with or without corrective lenses.
- Contact Lenses: Contact lens-wearing pilots must use their lenses for at least twice the projected flight or duty time without any deterioration in visual acuity or discomfort. Backup spectacles should also be readily available, and pilots should pass the required standards immediately after removing their contact lenses.
- Colour Vision: Pilots should be able to distinguish colours essential for safe flying. An operational colour vision assessment (OCVA) will be conducted if there are any colour deficiencies.
Renewals and Ongoing Assessments
As we reach 60, our eyesight might need more attention. For pilots, this means eye exams every two years. In those in-between years, designated aviation medical examiners (DAME) conduct overarching aviation medical exams, which include a basic eye test. Pilots are directed to a CO for a closer look if any concerns are identified.
A class 1 medical certificate is good for one year and is essential for various licenses, including:
- Air transport pilot
- Commercial pilot (other than balloons)
- Multi-crew pilot (aeroplane)
- Flight engineer
- Student flight engineer.
A class 3 medical certificate lasts for two years and is necessary for the following: Air traffic control, Flight service officers
Kindly note that Medicare doesn't cover vision screening services, and there
Your Trusted Partner for Aviation Eye Health
We understand the critical importance of maintaining clear vision and great eye health for individuals in the aviation industry. That's why we offer CASA examinations at our Fitzroy North practice. Whether you're a commercial pilot with a Class 1 licence or an air traffic controller with a Class 3 licence, we've got you covered.
Rest assured, we are well-versed in CASA's medical standards and requirements. Your vision is essential for safe aviation activities, and we are committed to helping you maintain it. When it comes to your aviation career, trust the COs at Fitzroy North Eye Centre.