CAF OKs Laser Eye Surgery for Crew

Canada's Air Force (CAF) has approved a policy that permits serving and potential aircrew to undergo certain types of laser refractive surgery (LRS), based on a study by the Aeromedical Policy and Standards Committee. "Advances in technology, outcomes of research and community standards of practice in the field of LRS are some of the primary reasons for the adoption of this new policy," the Department of National Defence said in a statement. The Chief of Air Staff's medical advisor, Navy Capt. Cyd Courchesne, said LRS will make it possible for many who would otherwise not have met vision standards to pursue a career operating CF [Canadian Forces] aircraft. The policy applies to all CF aircrew occupations, including pilots, and requires those who undergo LRS to pass standard aircrew vision tests before flying in CF aircraft and that their vision be monitored throughout their careers. It permits only specific types of laser eye surgery "that have a very successful track record," the CAF said. The decision to undergo any procedure and the costs involved will be the responsibility of the individual, it added.