New rules for color vision testing

The main difference between current testing and the new required online testing is that the color plates are randomized with each access so an applicant cannot memorize the sequence of the pseudoisochromatic color plates. At least there is one good part of this change—any pilot who has passed the color vision test previously will, in most cases, not have to be retested.

Color vision deficiency is usually red-green deficiency and is an inherited trait linked to the X chromosome, which makes it more common in men than women. Blue-yellow deficiency is rarer and affects men and women equally. However, the overall incidence of color blindness is about 7 percent. The important point is that color blindness is rarely functionally significant, in or out of the aviation environment.

The basic changes are as follows:

1. If a pilot has passed the color vision test prior to January 1, 2025, he or she does not need to ever be retested during medical renewal with the exclusion of reporting a new medication that can affect color vision perception, or developing a new medical condition that affects color vision. Examples would include taking certain medications such as Viagra (sildenafil citrate), a vasodilator prescribed for erectile dysfunction. Eye conditions including glaucoma, advanced stage cataracts, or age-related macular degeneration may also affect color vision.
2. A first-time applicant for medical certification will be required to test for color vision with one of three computerized tests. Applicants who pass will not have to be retested on future exams.

A pilot with a statement of demonstrated ability (SODA) for color blindness who moves up in medical class (e.g., from third to second) would require retesting for color vision under the new policy. In most cases, the pilot will not pass the computer-based test. AMEs are instructed to issue the medical with a “No night flying” restriction until the pilot can satisfactorily perform a medical flight test showing they can safely operate an aircraft with the color vision deficiency. There will be unintended consequences that will present problems for pilots. Some AMEs may not want to buy the computerized program ($1,000) and devote a computer or laptop in their office to this purpose. The FAA has suggested that AMEs who do not want to purchase the software or equipment refer pilots to vision clinics or other AMEs who are equipped to do the vision portion of the AME exam. However, some AMEs may say they have had enough of such shenanigans and quit. AMEs who purchased the materials may charge an additional amount for the new testing to recoup the investment.

So, what is the point? The FAA is concerned about pilots misreading flat screen displays, runway glideslope indicator lights, and light gun signals. However, you have to look a long time to find an accident caused by color blindness.