NR 08.002 - April 11, 2008
OTTAWA – Canada's Air Force has recently approved a new policy that permits serving and potential aircrew to undergo certain types of Laser Refractive Surgery (LRS).
The Chief of the Air Staff approved the new policy based on a recommendation by the Aeromedical Policy and Standards Committee. This recommendation came as a result of an in-depth study and review of LRS procedures. 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.
"I am very pleased with the decision to allow serving and potential aircrew to undergo Laser Refractive Surgery," said the Medical Advisor to the Chief of Air Staff, Navy Captain Cyd Courchesne. "It is an effective procedure that will make it possible for many talented individuals, who would otherwise not have met the aircrew visual standard, to pursue an exciting career operating CF aircraft."
This new policy applies to all CF aircrew occupations including pilots.
The new policy requires that serving members and applicants who have chosen to undergo LRS meet standard aircrew vision requirements before flying in CF aircraft and that their vision be monitored throughout their flying career. As well, the policy permits only specific types of laser eye surgery that have a very successful track record. It should be noted that the decision to undergo LRS and the cost of the procedure, at this time, rests with the individual.
The Canadian Forces has not had any difficulty attracting aircrew applicants in the past several years. However, having an even larger pool of applicants may result in a more competitive selection process, thus ensuring the Air Force has the best aircrew responding to the demanding security environment of the 21st Century.
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