Why Pilots Prefer Non-Polarized Sunglasses in the Cockpit?

When you witness a pilot wearing stylish glasses, rest assured these are not simply for show. Sunglasses are an important part of a pilot’s job in that they protect the eyes, as well as assist in seeing clearly (or not) during the flight. Not all sunglasses are basically universal, so pilots usually want to wear non-polarized sunglasses instead of polarized sunglasses. But why is this? Let’s talk about the reasons this is even something to talk about.

The Role of Sunglasses in Aviation

When flying, it often entails hours of being above the clouds in sunlight that is stronger and more direct. As altitude increases, sun rays become more intense due to less atmosphere to filter the sun’s rays. This leads to discomfort of the eyes and fatigue, and prolonged exposure can lead to long-term damage.

Sunglasses are helpful for pilots because they: 

• Reduce glare from sunlight and clouds. 

• Minimize eye fatigue. 

• Maximize visual comfort and focus.  

• Increase contrast for better visibility. 

 In order for these advantages to be safe to use inside the cockpit, however, the correct type of lenses—non-polarized—should be selected. 

What Are Polarized Sunglasses? 

Polarized sunglasses feature a filter that blocks horizontal light waves. This minimizes glare produced by flat, highly reflective surfaces, like bodies of water, snow, and the road. Therefore, polarized prescription lenses are well-liked by drivers, boaters, and recreational outdoorsmen. Polarized lenses also enhance the appearance of colors and help improve comfort and visibility on bright sunny days. However, while the benefits of polarized lenses are clear in many scenarios, they can be problematic for pilots.

Why Polarized Lenses Can Be Dangerous in the Cockpit 

Pilots depend on instrumentation and digital displays to safely maneuver their aircraft in the cockpit. Many of these displays, such as LCD (liquid crystal display) screens, also use polarization. When a pilot has polarized sunglasses, the combination of the sunglasses and the displays can cause the display to appear dark, blurry, or even invisible depending upon the pilot's line of sight. 

Here are the main problems that polarized sunglasses can create when flying: 

1. Trouble Reading Gauges & Instrument Displays

The vast majority of aviation instruments and GPS displays utilize polarized filters. A polarized lens can reflect or block the light from these displays, thus making it difficult for pilots to read important information that may compromise safety.

2. Reduced Visibility Through Windshield

A majority of aircraft windshields are made of laminated windows, which reflect light differently compared to non-laminated windows. Polarized lenses can affect how these reflections are perceived, and they can create distracting patterns or dark spots, dicing my pilot's effort to see properly when flying in the cockpit flying environment.

3. Poor Detection of Glare or Reflections

Though glare may seem irritating, glare also helps pilots detect additional aircraft, runways, or obstacles in their environment; thus, polarized lenses (or film) will eliminate these reflections, which may also make it hard to see or see well enough to watch for important visual cues for the pilots, especially during the takeoff and landing sequence after the takeoff and landing approach.

4. Altered Colors

Polarized filters can slightly change the reproduction of colors. It is essential pilots have pretty accurate color perception in order to accurately indicate lights, whether signals or screens. Lenses that are not polarized tend to follow the natural color spectrum so that pilots have more accurate color perceptions to better react promptly and in a safe manner.

Why Non-Polarized Sunglasses Are the Better Choice

Non-polarized sunglasses still protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, reduce brightness, and don't hinder a pilot's ability to see digital screens or the outside view. This is why they are preferred: 

You will have an unobstructed view of cockpit instruments; they don't block or distort LCD and LED screens.  

You will be able to recognize colors accurately; the colors of warning lights and signals remain true to life.  

You will have better visibility outside of the aircraft through the windows, and there are no strange rainbow patterns nor dark spots. 

You will receive uniform visual performance in multiple lighting conditions and no alterations to any reflections.  

What Type of Sunglasses Do Pilots Wear?

Usually, the sunglasses selected by pilots have non-polarized lenses with these color variations:

• Gray or brown tint: These colors help provide natural contrast and do not distort colors.

• UV protection: This protects the eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays at high altitudes.

• Anti-reflection coating: Reduces glare coming from behind the lenses.

• Lightweight, comfortable frames: This ensures that the sunglasses fit comfortably and securely beneath headsets or helmets. 

Aviator-style sunglasses, which were used by pilots, remain a classic favorite.  Their large lenses provide widespread lens coverage and protection from sunlight entering through the cockpit windows.

Choosing the Right Sunglasses for Flying

If you're a pilot or an aviation enthusiast, here are a few straightforward guidelines for buying sunglasses:

• Skip the polarized lenses—even if they look clearer at first. 

• Opt for 100% UV protection to ensure any long-term eye damage is avoided. 

• Choose neutral lens tints like gray for accurate color perception. 

• Make sure they feel comfortable and fit well, particularly if you're flying for longer hours. 

• Look for durable materials that can withstand pressures and temperature differences. 

The right pair of non-polarized sunglasses can help the user protect their eyes but is even more important in promoting safety when the user is able to read every display clearly and, thus, able to react quickly to what they are visually perceiving.

Conclusion

Polarized sunglasses are perfect for the road or any outdoor activity, but they would not work well for those in aviation. Non-polarized sunglasses allow pilots to see clearly inside and outside the cockpit with no hindrance. Non-polarized sunglasses offer comfort, protection, and clarity—the trifecta of safe flying! 

Fly Clear and Confident with Aviator

At Aviator, we design sunglasses that pilots trust day in and day out. Non-polarized lenses offer no comparison in respect to clarity, comfort, and safety in every condition. Whether you are a career aviator or just love flying, Aviator sunglasses deliver better sight and safer flying.

Shop our collection today and see the sky in perfect vision—only with Aviator.