Signal Light Gun Test, eep Options

[gatorbuc99]

Hey everyone, as you guys probably already know, and are tired of me sayin by now, my eyes are crap...i'm color deficient like there's no tomorrow. I'm gettin ready for my cross crountry here in the next coupla weeks, and also some night time flying, so i'm going to take a signal light test tomorrow. Has anyone takin one before? I think i pretty much know the drill, but after reading this, especially the last coupla sentences,

The Guide to Aviation Medical Examiners goes on to explain how an applicant who has failed the test might obtain a Statement of Demonstrated Ability (SODA) for borderline color deficiency. The Guide states "an applicant who holds a medical certificate bearing a color vision limitation may request reevaluation or a SODA under the Special Issuance Section of Part 67 (14 CFR 67.401). This request should be in writing and should be directed to the Aeromedical Certification Division, AAM-300. If the applicant can perform the color vision task, the FAA will issue a medical certificate without a limitation with a SODA. Demonstrating the ability to perform color vision task appropriate to the certificate applied for may entail a medical flight test or a signal light test. If a signal light test or medical flight test is required, the FAA will authorize the test. The signal light test may be given anytime during training."

Unfortunately for the airman with borderline color vision, the opportunities to perform a medical flight test or signal light test are restricted to one, or possibly two, opportunities. The correct interpretation of these tests are left to the FAA pilot inspector. Failure of a signal light test generally results in a permanent restriction on an airman's medical certificate prohibiting night flying and flight by color signal control.

...i've become a little nervous. Can anyone assure me it'll be alright, i'll pass fine and i've got nuthin to worry about? *bite nails*

[c150student]

I think whatever happens is for the best. If you pass, great, but if you fail, it just means its not safe for you to be flying at night. Its not the FAA trying to stop people flying....its the FAA trying to stop people dying. I cant assure you you'll be alright, it all depends on your sight.

If your eyesight is that bad I cant see you passing. But if you're just being hard on yourself, you may well pass. Just see how it goes, and be sure to tell us Good luck!

[gatorbuc99]

I think whatever happens is for the best. If you pass, great, but if you fail, it just means its not safe for you to be flying at night. Its not the FAA trying to stop people flying....its the FAA trying to stop people dying. I cant assure you you'll be alright, it all depends on your sight.

If your eyesight is that bad I cant see you passing. But if you're just being hard on yourself, you may well pass. Just see how it goes, and be sure to tell us Good luck!

I passed . No more restrictions on any medicals i ever get

Thanks C150, yea i was worried about it after reading that but after talkin to a few people, i just figured,"oh well, if they're(my eyes) good enough, then they are, if not then there's nothing anyone can do about it".

Thankfully, though it all worked out, so i've been given the all-clear.

[velocityflier16]

i was going to say if you didnt pass, try getting your sport or rec certificate but thats good that you passed

[c150student]

hey, congrats gator! Sound like you are relieved. I'm happy for you!

[chris_pilot]

Excellent news, I'm delighted for ya! Happy flying man!

Cheers,
Chris

[cruz_aviator]

HEY gatorbuc, i was inspired by your fortune. i'm a private pilot based in houston texas. i got my letter of authorization from the FAA and from what i understand it is good for 90 days. i think i'm past that because i've been very nervous to drive to Ellington Field in houston in fear of failing it. like most of us, we dream to fly commercially. failing this would just end it all and i'd have to pursue a different career.

what process did you take to do the test? over here, i set an appointment with the FAA office in ellington field. i was hoping i'd do the test in my hombase but they said the couldn't drive up here. are there other options? those FAA inspectors intimdate me somewhat.

[Aspiring Boeing ...]

Congratulations . Try not to worry too much about things anymore, as you can do it (as proved by your pass). Happy flying.

Regards,
Chris