We are proposing to confirm the 2 assessment methods that pilots can undertake if they do not pass the currently prescribed Ishihara and Farnsworth tests for colour vision proficiency contained in CASR Part 67.
The proposed tests are:
- Australian Operational Colour Vision Assessment (AOCVA)
- Colour Assessment and Diagnostic (CAD) test.
A pilot who passes either test will be deemed to meet the Class 1 and Class 2 medical standard for colour vision and be issued with a medical certificate without any colour vision related restrictions or endorsements.
Our aim is to confirm testing options available for pilots by the end of April and for these to be formally prescribed in a legislative instrument to create certainty and stability. The tests will recognise that many pilots with a colour vision deficiency can demonstrate they are able to operate safely and competently without any medical or operational restrictions.
Any pilots that currently have colour vision related restrictions or endorsements on their medical certificate will be able to have these removed if they pass one of the prescribed tests.
An advance copy of the instrument is now available for review.
We wish to thank the Aviation Medicine Colour Vision Technical Working Group (TWG), appointed by the Aviation Safety Advisory Panel, for their input and contribution to develop a workable and fair draft policy proposal that improves outcomes for colour vision affected pilots.
Have your say via the Consultation Hub by 14 April 2024.
