CASA Eye Tests in Sydney by Designated Aviation Ophthalmologist (DAO)
Eye Examinations for Pilots and Air Traffic Controllers
Maintaining optimal vision is essential for safe aviation. Whether you are a student pilot, private pilot, or commercial aircrew, your eyesight must meet strict standards set by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).
At Eye and Retina Specialists, we provide comprehensive aviation eye exams tailored to CASA medical requirements performed by Dr Neil Sharma, a Designated Aviation Ophthalmologist (DAO). As a specialist-led clinic with expertise in retinal and complex eye conditions, when required we provide pilots and air traffic controllers with accurate, well-documented reports to assist in certification decisions.
What is an Aviation Eye Examination?
An aviation ophthalmology assessment is a detailed medical eye examination designed to determine whether you meet the visual standards required by the Australian Government's Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).
The purpose of an aviation eye exam is to ensure that pilots and air traffic controllers have sufficient vision to safely operate and guide aircraft. For pilots, this may involve:
-
Reading cockpit instruments and displays
-
Spotting other aircraft, obstacles and terrain (especially in busy airspace)
-
Reading charts, approach plates and checklists
-
Seeing and interpreting runway and navigation lights
-
Judging distance and depth for landing
Who Needs an Aviation Eye Examination?
You may require a CASA eye examination if:
-
You are applying for or renewing a CASA medical (Class 1, 2, or 3)
-
Your DAME has requested ophthalmology review
-
There are borderline or reduced vision results
-
You have a known eye condition
-
You have had prior eye surgery
We commonly assess student pilots, private pilots (Class 2), commercial pilots (Class 1) and air traffic controllers (Class 3).
Comprehensive Aviation Eye Assessment
Aviation medical certification may require further investigation to meet the CASA requirements for vision.
Routine testing includes visual acuity measurement, objective refraction, intraocular pressure measurement, colour vision screening and examination of the eye using slit lamp biomicroscopy.
Where required, additional investigations such as visual field testing, OCT imaging, retinal photography and contrast sensitivity testing can be performed onsite. Our clinic has available the OPTEC 900 for Tier 2 colour vision screening when required.
By combining specialist ophthalmic examination with advanced diagnostic imaging and functional testing, we are able to provide a comprehensive assessment for pilots, student pilots and aviation personnel within a single clinic visit.
Pilot performing colour vision screening test using Ishihara testing
Aviation Medical and Airline Assessments
Dr Neil Sharma is a Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) accredited Designated Aviation Ophthalmologist (DAO) and member of the Australasian Society of Aerospace Medicine (ASAM).
Our clinic in Waterloo is conveniently located close to Sydney Airport at Mascot. Appointment can usually be booked at short notice if urgent.
We regularly assess :
-
Pilots and air traffic controllers needing CASA aviation eye testing.
-
Pilots from major Australian airlines such as Qantas, Jetstar, Regional EXpress (REX) and Virgin Australia for pre-employment screening and ongoing eye vision assessment.
-
Student pilots from Australia and overseas requiring certification prior to commencing pilot training
-
Pilots and air traffic controllers returning to work after accident or illness
For DAMEs and Flight Schools
Dr Neil Sharma is a Designated Aviation Ophthalmologist (DAO) providing aviation ophthalmology assessment for pilots, student pilots and aviation personnel.
Our clinic offers comprehensive eye examinations together with visual field testing, retinal imaging and onsite OPTEC 900 colour vision assessment. Most investigations can be performed during the same visit, allowing pilots to complete their ophthalmic assessment conveniently under one roof.
We welcome referrals from Designated Aviation Medical Examiners (DAMEs), flight schools and aviation organisations requiring specialist ophthalmic assessment as part of the CASA medical certification process.
Located in Waterloo, approximately 10 minutes from Sydney Airport, our clinic provides a convenient referral option for pilots throughout Sydney and regional New South Wales. We also have pilots from interstate attend for their aviation assessments.
OPTEC 900 lantern testing for pilots requiring CASA secondary colour vision assessment
Why Choose Eye and Retina Specialists?
-
Specialist ophthalmology care
-
Expertise in retinal and complex eye conditions
-
Advanced diagnostic imaging including OCT and visual fields
-
Efficient appointments with minimal waiting
-
Convenient location close to Sydney Airport
-
Free on-site patient parking
Dr Neil Sharma providing ophthalmology outreach services to remote indigenous communities in the Northern Territory
Book an Aviation Eye Test
If you require a CASA or other aviation eye examination , we can provide appointments usually at short notice without long waiting times. Call us on (02) 9699 0001 or email reception@eyeandretina.com.au
