Hearing Testing

Pilots and others who work around aircraft are exposed to loud noise over long periods. Hearing loss from noise often cannot be reversed, but further loss can often be prevented once it is found. Regular hearing tests help catch changes early.

 

The usual test is pure tone audiometry. You wear headphones and indicate when you hear tones at different pitches and volumes. Each ear is tested separately, and the results are recorded on a chart called an audiogram.

 

Where to get tested

Hearing tests are best done by a licensed audiologist of your choice. Please ask the audiology clinic for a copy of your audiogram report and bring it to your medical. Clinics usually charge a small fee.

 

If you are planning a commercial pilot career, it is a good idea to get a baseline audiogram early. If you need an audiogram, try to have it done before your first medical.

 

Not every pilot needs a hearing test. It depends on your category, your age, and your medical history. If you have a previous audiogram, please bring it for comparison.