How could I become a fighter pilot when I have less than the required eyesight?

Becoming a fighter pilot with less than the required eyesight is highly challenging, but there are some considerations and potential paths you can explore:

Vision Requirements for Air Force Pilots

To be an Air Force fighter pilot, you must meet strict vision requirements, including:

• Normal color vision
• Near visual acuity of 20/30 or better without correction
• Distance visual acuity of no worse than 20/70 in each eye, correctable to 20/20
• Meeting other refraction, accommodation, and astigmatism requirements234.

Corrective Measures

While corrective eye surgery such as LASIK can be an option, it is subject to certain conditions:

• The Air Force allows fighter pilots to undergo LASIK, but you must receive clearance from your commanding officer and be non-deployable for one month after the surgery.
• There are specific recovery and stabilization periods that must be adhered to12.

Waivers and Alternative Roles

Waivers for vision standards are not common but are not unheard of either. However, these are typically granted on a case-by-case basis and are rare.

• If your vision does not meet the standards, you might consider other roles within the Air Force that have less stringent vision requirements, such as an Air Battle Manager, a Navigator, or an RPA (Remotely Piloted Aircraft) Pilot3.

Other Branches and Roles

Other branches of the military, like the Navy, have different vision requirements that might be more lenient:

• For example, the Navy's vision requirements for pilots can be slightly different, and roles like a Weapon Systems Officer in a two-seat fighter aircraft may have lower eyesight requirements3.

Pre-Screening and Consultation

It is advisable to get a thorough vision exam and consult with an Aviation Medical Examiner or an Air Force recruiter to determine your eligibility. This can provide a clearer insight into whether you can meet the vision standards or if there are any potential waivers or alternative roles available3.

In summary, while it is difficult to become a fighter pilot with less than the required eyesight, exploring corrective surgery options, seeking waivers, or considering alternative roles within the military can be viable paths to pursue a career in aviation.