Minor Hearing Loss

Corndog Newcomer

I am considering signing up for an ATC program, but I was reading these requirements, and I have a question about the hearing loss. It states:

"Applicants must demonstrate, by audiometry, no hearing loss in either ear of more than 25 decibels in the 500, 1000, or 2000 Hz ranges and must demonstrate no hearing loss in these ranges of more than 20 decibels in the better ear, using ISO (1964) or ANSI (1969) standards. Hearing loss in either ear of more than 40 decibels in the 4000 Hz range may necessitate an otological consultation. Incipient disease processes that may lead to early hearing loss will be cause for disqualification."

I have had some minor hearing loss in both ears due to tubes and some surgery due to a perforated ear drum when I was really young. I recently went to my old doctor to get my hearing tested. I meet the standards in the 500 and 1000 Hz ranges, with no hearing loss more 20 decibels in both ears, but with the 2000 Hz range, the hearing loss in both ears is greater than 20 but less than 25 decibels. Will I be disqualified because of this?

Also, from the middle ear test that uses air pressure, they found that I have a small perforation in my right ear drum. According to my doctor, it is so small and in the corner of my ear that it is very difficult to see and is causing no problems to my hearing. Would I need to have this fixed to qualify as well?

My doctor said I should qualify, but before I invest any time or money, I want to be certain as the standards are very clear. Thank you for your time.

G_Orsak Aviation Medical Examiner Pearland, TX

You should not have a problem.