Absolutely medical fitness is mandatory for anyone aspiring to become a pilot in India. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) requires aspiring pilots to obtain valid medical certificates divided into two distinct classes Class 2 and Class 1.
When Required: This is mandatory before beginning any official flight training such as applying for a Student Pilot License (SPL) or starting ground training.
Where It’s Conducted: Any DGCA approved Class 2 medical examiner can perform this.
Tests Involved:
General physical check (height weight BMI)
Vision tests (distant/near vision color perception)
Hearing assessment
Blood and urine screening
Chest X-ray and ECG (especially for older candidates)
Purpose: Validates your basic physical and sensory fitness to commence pilot training.
When Required: Before progressing toward a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) especially before solo flying or being employed as a commercial pilot.
Where It’s Conducted: At select DGCA approved centers or Air Force facilities (e.g. AFCME in Delhi IAM in Bengaluru).
Comprehensive Tests Include:
All Class 2 examinations plus:
Detailed eye and depth perception tests
Audiometry (hearing)
Pulmonary function (spirometry)
ECG and treadmill (stress) test
ENT, neurological, and psychological evaluations
Blood chemistry (e.g. sugar lipids)
Purpose: Ensures readiness for professional flying responsibilities.
Aviation demands peak physical and cognitive health impairments can jeopardize safety. These DGCA mandated medical checks ensure pilots are fully fit to handle high stress high responsibility roles.