Objective: To probe the relations between sensorineural deafness and flying in aviation or space.
Method: Case studies of sensorineural deafness were made in 36 pilots.
Result: Unilateral deafness (n=15) and bilateral deafness (n=21) were found in 36 pilots, with mild deafness (n=9), moderate deafness (n=37) and severe deafness (n=11) in 57 ears. 19 cases were permanently grounded and 17 cases were still in a qualified position to continue their flying job.
Conclusion: Sensorineural deafness may hazard the flying in aviation or space, meanwhile the flying in aviation or space may lead to or aggravate sensorineural deafness.