In a major policy reform aimed at modernizing India’s aviation medical evaluation system, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has authorized several private hospitals across the country to conduct medical examinations for pilots and other licensed aviation personnel.
The initiative, which comes into effect on November 15, is expected to simplify and speed up the medical certification process that pilots must undergo to maintain their flying licences.
Until now, all civil aviation medicals were routed through Indian Air Force (IAF) facilities such as the Institute of Aerospace Medicine (IAM), Bengaluru, and the Air Force Central Medical Establishment (AFCME), Delhi — a practice often criticized by pilots for causing administrative delays and logistical challenges.
According to a DGCA notification, 10 Aeromedical Evaluation Centres have now been officially approved to conduct Class 1, 2, and 3 medical examinations for civil aviation licence holders.
The empanelled centres include:
- Apollo Hospitals (Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Indore, and Delhi)
- Max Multi Speciality Centre, New Delhi
- Medanta Mediclinic, Gurugram
- Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune
- VM Medical Centre, Mumbai
- Nanavati Hospital, Mumbai
All these hospitals are now permitted to perform DGCA-compliant medical evaluations. Notably, Nanavati Hospital has been given special authorization to conduct Class 1 initial and re-initial medicals, which are mandatory for new and renewing commercial pilots.
Aviation experts and pilot associations have widely welcomed the move, calling it a progressive and long-awaited step towards aligning India’s aviation medical standards with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) norms.
The Airline Pilots’ Association of India applauded the decision, noting that it “reduces bureaucracy, enhances transparency, and promotes a civilian-driven aviation regulatory system.”
By allowing regular pilot medicals to be conducted at these approved civilian hospitals, the DGCA aims to improve efficiency, reduce waiting periods, and enhance accessibility for thousands of aviation professionals across the country.
This reform marks a significant shift towards a more modern, transparent, and globally aligned aviation healthcare ecosystem in India.