Yes, you can become a flight attendant even if you wear glasses, as long as your corrected vision meets the safety and performance standards required by airlines and aviation authorities. Clear vision is essential in this role, but the industry allows the use of glasses or contact lenses as long as they correct your vision to the required levels.

1. Vision Requirements

Most airlines and aviation authorities have specific vision standards for their staff. Generally, they require flight attendants to have a corrected vision of:

• 20/20 or 6/6 (perfect vision) with glasses or contact lenses.

• If your vision cannot be corrected to this level, it may pose a challenge during the hiring process.

Additionally, specific visual capabilities like depth perception, color recognition, and peripheral vision may also be evaluated.

2. Mandatory Medical Examinations

Flight attendants undergo regular and thorough medical examinations to ensure they are fit to work in environments with low pressure and unique conditions. These examinations include:

• Ophthalmological Tests: To assess distance and near vision, color perception, and sensitivity to light.

• Medical Documentation: Candidates who wear glasses or contact lenses should bring a current prescription to confirm their vision meets the standards.

3. Emergency Situations and Clear Vision

Flight attendants must have clear vision to handle routine tasks and emergencies effectively. In critical situations such as:

• Evacuations: Clear vision is crucial to guide passengers to safety.

• Fire or smoke incidents: Being able to read signs or safety equipment instructions quickly is essential.

• Monitoring passengers: Detecting unusual behavior or potential safety threats requires strong visual capabilities.

Thus, wearing glasses or contact lenses that ensure perfect correction is not just acceptable but vital.

4. Options for Vision Correction

• Glasses and Contact Lenses: You can choose either option based on your comfort and preference.

  • If you wear contact lenses, many airlines require you to carry a backup pair of glasses during flights in case of discomfort or an emergency.

• Vision Surgery (Optional): Some candidates opt for corrective surgeries like LASIK, but this is not a requirement.

5. Airline-Specific Policies

Every airline has its own guidelines regarding vision requirements. For example:

• International airlines: Often stricter in their standards.

• Regional airlines: May have slightly more flexible rules.

It’s important to review the specific requirements of the airline you’re applying to and disclose any vision corrections during the application process.

Conclusion

Wearing glasses does not disqualify you from becoming a flight attendant as long as your corrected vision meets the industry standards. Whether you use glasses or contact lenses, ensuring your vision is well-corrected will allow you to perform your duties effectively and ensure passenger safety in all conditions. Be prepared to undergo regular medical examinations and always have backup solutions (like spare glasses) to maintain compliance with safety requirements.