Again, FAA hearing standards allow the use of BOTH ears to pass, not just EACH ear. A pilot could be completely deaf in one ear and still meet FAA standards.
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A deaf pilot can obtain a student pilot certificate, recreational pilot certificate, private pilot certificate, and, on a limited basis, a commercial pilot certificate; for example, agricultural aircraft operations, banner towing operations, or any operation which does not require radio communication.
The FAA standard for all classes is that an airman must hear at least 70 percent in one ear. The hearing medical standard for all classes requires that the airman be able to meet one of three different hearing tests.
Pilots need hearing protection because the sound levels within the cockpit can reach between 80 to 95 dB. Sounds at or below 70 dBA are generally considered safe. Any sound at or above 85 dBA is more likely to damage your hearing over time, therefore pilots should wear hearing protection.
Even though many pilots get used to the air pressure changes while in the air, pilots have developed techniques that help them to deal with ear popping when it occurs. So, let's explore what those techniques are.
Nevertheless, language skills and cognitive development are not impaired and someone diagnosed with Asperger syndrome may be able to acquire the skills necessary to function safely as a pilot or air traffic controller.
The FAA Hearing TestAll pilots must pass a hearing test in order to obtain their license. The hearing test forms part of the medical examination required to obtain the medical certificate. If a pilot is wearing hearing aids during the test, they are required to use them as stipulated on their medical certificate.
Acoustic neuromas, benign tumors that grow in the inner ear that can cause hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and disequilibrium similar to vertigo, also are disqualifying until reviewed by the FAA. Meniere's disease is a particular problem for pilots because of the quick onset and severity of symptoms.
Chewing is another practice that helps pilots to relieve ear popping. Just like yawning or swallowing liquids, chewing also stretches areas around the ears, equalizing the pressure inside the ear.
Earplugs, combined with active noise reduction headsets, provide the maximum level of individual hearing protection that can be achieved with current technology. Hearing is second only to vision as a sensory mechanism to obtain critical information during the operation of an aircraft.