Do pilots get hearing loss?

Hearing loss is one of the important health problems that the pilots encounter. Noise and barotrauma are the two important reasons that may lead to hearing loss in pilots. The higher intensity of aircraft noise than that of other sound sources leads to the development of noise-induced hearing loss in pilots.



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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.

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The FAA allows the use of implants for medical certification, but you will need FAA authorization before resuming your flying privileges.

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The FAA Hearing Test All 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.

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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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Airplane ear occurs when the air pressure in the middle ear and the air pressure in the environment don't match, preventing your eardrum (tympanic membrane) from vibrating normally. A narrow passage called the eustachian tube, which is connected to the middle ear, regulates air pressure.

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One of the most common risks associated with being a pilot is the physical and mental strain. Pilots must remain alert and focused for long periods of time, often in difficult circumstances. This can lead to fatigue and stress, both of which can have a negative impact on their performance and safety.

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Hearing loss in the airline industry can be caused by the work done on aircrafts. Aviation occupations often involve noise exposure. Dangerous noise happens both on the ground by an aircraft and within it while it is in the air. Often rotors, propellers, jet efflux, and aircraft equipment trigger hearing loss.

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Protecting Ears When on a Plane Exposure to noise at 85 dB for more than eight hours a day can cause permanent hearing loss or temporary hearing problems like tinnitus (2). However, at 100 dB, the safe duration of exposure is only 15 minutes a day (3).

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Use filtered earplugs to equalize the pressure against your eardrum during ascents and descents. Use an over-the-counter decongestant nasal spray and/or oral decongestant pills about 30 minutes to an hour before takeoff and landing to help open the eustachian tubes and equalize pressure on the eardrums.

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Sit away from the engine.
Seats in the front rows are farthest away from the engine and therefore better for your hearing. However, if you have to sit farther back in the plane, choose an aisle seat as they are several decibels quieter than window seats.

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