In aviation, color isn’t just cosmetic—it’s critical. From runway approach lighting to cockpit alert systems, color cues provide fast, intuitive information that pilots rely on to make real-time decisions. But not everyone sees color the same way. That’s why the FAA tests color vision as part of every pilot’s medical certification.

As of January 1, 2025, the FAA has modernized this process, requiring computerized color vision testing as the standard for all airman medical exams. Here’s what you need to know about the types of color vision deficiencies, how they impact flying, and what the FAA’s updated requirements mean for you.

How Color Vision Works

Color perception comes from three types of cone cells in the retina— each sensitive to red, green, or blue light. When one type is missing or not functioning properly, it results in a color vision deficiency. Most people with these deficiencies aren’t truly “color blind”— they simply have trouble distinguishing certain hues, especially in low contrast or blended environments.

The Three Most Common Types of Color Vision Deficiency

1. Deutan (Green-Weak)

• Affected Cone: Green

• Typical Difficulty: Confusing reds and greens, especially in dim or blended light

• Common in Aviation: May affect ability to interpret terrain warnings or traffic alert symbology using green indicators.
  
  

2. Protan (Red-Weak)

• Affected Cone: Red

• Typical Difficulty: Reduced red sensitivity; red may appear dark or faded

• Critical in Aviation: Red lights and alerts (like master warnings or glide slope indicators) may be misinterpreted or missed entirely.
  
  

3. Tritan (Blue-Weak)

• Affected Cone: Blue

• Typical Difficulty: Difficulty distinguishing between blues and yellows

• Rare but Relevant: May impact perception of weather radar or terrain gradient systems.

Why It Matters in Aviation

In flight, color is used to rapidly communicate safety-critical information. A few examples:

• Red and white approach slope lighting helps guide proper descent angles. Red-weak pilots may perceive red as pink or gray, especially in fog or dusk.

• Glass cockpit alerts often transition from green to yellow to red to indicate increasing urgency. Subtle transitions may go unnoticed by pilots with deficiencies.

• Terrain and traffic avoidance systems use blended color gradients to indicate hazard proximity.
  
  

A delay in recognizing these color-based cues—even by a few seconds—can pose real safety risks.

FAA Color Vision Testing: What’s New in 2025

✅  All Exams Now Require Computerized Testing

As of January 1, 2025, the FAA mandates that all pilots undergo computerized color vision testing during their medical exam. This testing must be performed using one of the FAA-approved devices, such as:

• Rabin Cone Contrast Test (CCT)

• Waggoner Computerized Color Vision Test (CCVT)

• CAD Test (Colour Assessment and Diagnosis)
  
  

📌 These are the only acceptable primary testing methods. Paper Ishihara plates and lantern tests are no longer accepted.

Reference: FAA Aerospace Medical Disposition Guidance - Item 52 (Color Vision)

What Happens If You Don’t Pass?

If a pilot fails the computerized test, the AME may issue a Third-Class medical certificate with a limitation:

“Not valid for night flying or by color signal control” (FAA Limitation #104).

To fly without that restriction, pilots may:

1. Request Authorization from the Federal Air Surgeon for further evaluation

2. Complete an Operational Color Vision Test (OCVT) and Medical Flight Test (MFT) with a Flight Standards Inspector

3. If successful, receive a Statement of Demonstrated Ability (SODA) that allows unrestricted flying
   
   

Note: If you already hold a valid SODA or LOE (Letter of Evidence), you are not required to retest under the new 2025 protocol unless you are applying for a higher class or develop a new vision-affecting condition.

Tips for Pilots with Known or Suspected Deficiencies

• Schedule early: If you’re unsure about your color vision, get tested before applying for training or certification.

• Explore display customization: Many avionics systems allow color and contrast adjustments that may improve readability.

• Leverage alternative cues: Audio alerts, shape-based symbology, and analog backups can help reduce reliance on color alone.

• Be honest with yourself: If certain flying environments or conditions increase your workload due to color limitations, avoiding them is good airmanship.

Final Thoughts

Color vision deficiencies don’t automatically disqualify someone from flying—but they do require thoughtful testing and sometimes creative adaptation. The FAA’s move to computerized testing brings consistency and clarity to the process, ensuring that pilots are well-prepared for today’s color-rich aviation landscape.

At FDG Health Group, we offer FAA-compliant medical exams and stay up to date on evolving standards like the 2025 color vision protocol. If you’re unsure where you stand, we can help guide you through testing, certification, and—if needed—the SODA process.

As Always, 

Smooth skies and steady pulses,

— HIMS AME of Houston

Disclaimer

This blog post is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for consulting with your healthcare provider for case-specific assessment. Always seek the advice of your physician for any concerns or questions regarding medical conditions. Following the suggestions in this post does not guarantee a specific medical outcome or certification outcome. HIMS AME of Houston is not a representative of the Federal Aviation Administration.