SMILE Pro for Pilots

Why This Is Different for Pilots Aviation medical certification standards often include specific rules about refractive surgery, including required waiting periods before returning to flying duties and documentation requirements. Discussing Aviation Requirements Before proceeding, pilots should check the specific requirements of their aviation authority or airline medical department, in addition to consulting their eye surgeon. What Your Surgeon Can Provide Your surgeon can provide documentation of your procedure and outcomes, which is often required for aviation medical recertification — confirm exactly what your certifying body needs in advance. Typical Waiting Periods Aviation authorities commonly require a waiting period and stable vision confirmation before returning to flying duties, though exact requirements vary by jurisdiction and role. Coordinating Both Requirements Planning your procedure timing around your aviation recertification schedule, in consultation with both your surgeon and aviation medical examiner, helps avoid complications.