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Indian Express

Answered: Why aviator sunglasses, worn by pilots, are more than a style statement

We have apprised you of the many things cabin crew do for safety aboard a flight. In keeping with the same, today we share one critical part of safety guidelines that pilots tend to adhere to: wearing aviator sunglasses. While they have become a fashion statement, experts urge that they are more than that. But how? Just like car drivers tend to wear sunshades to protect their eyes from the glaring sun, experts suggest that pilots wear aviator sunglasses mainly to protect their eyes while flying. 'At high altitudes, the sunlight is much stronger and can be very harsh on the eyes. The large windows in the cockpit let in a lot of light, and this can create glare, especially when it reflects off clouds or the surface of the Earth. Aviator sunglasses have big, curved lenses that cover the eyes well and block light from the sides too,' said Sanjay Jadhav, optician, founder of Optic Nest, Bengaluru. Most aviator lenses also offer UV protection. 'UV rays from the sun can harm the eyes over time, so wearing sunglasses helps keep vision clear and healthy. This helps pilots see more clearly and reduces eye strain during long hours of flying,' said Jadhav. While social media often stresses that some aviators have polarised lenses, which reduce glare from reflective surfaces like clouds, water, or other aircraft, Capt Anil Rao, General Secretary, ALPA India, said polaroid glasses are not allowed for pilots as they can distort LCD/LED displays. He explained, 'The teardrop shape of the glass and thin metal frame is to cover the entire eye so UV rays don't enter from the corners. The original colour of the glass was green to filter the blue light and reduce glare, which were called the G-15 lenses.' Notably, aviators are also lightweight and comfortable, essential for pilots who wear them for many hours. 'The thin metal frame fits well with headsets and helmets used in the cockpit. So, pilots wear aviators not just for style, but because they protect the eyes from bright light, UV rays, and make it easier and safer to fly,' said Jadhav.