A Class 1 medical examination is a comprehensive assessment required for individuals pursuing a career as a commercial pilot under the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India. This examination ensures that pilots meet the necessary physical and mental health standards to operate aircraft safely.
The Class 1 medical examination is conducted by DGCA-approved medical examiners at designated centers. The process involves several key steps:
Application and Appointment: Candidates must apply for the medical examination through the DGCA eGCA portal. It's advisable to schedule an appointment in advance especially for initial medicals, as slots can be limited.
Documentation: Applicants need to bring specific documents, including:
Class 2 medical certificate (CA35)
Government-issued photo ID (e.g., Aadhaar or passport)
4–6 passport-sized photographs
Spectacle/contact lens prescription (if applicable)
Medical history records and relevant forms (CA34/35)
Medical Tests: The examination includes a series of tests to assess various aspects of health:
Vision Test: Checks for color blindness depth perception, and overall eyesight.
Audiometry: Evaluates hearing ability.
Electrocardiogram (ECG): Assesses heart function.
Pulmonary Function Test: Measures lung capacity and efficiency.
ENT Examination: Assesses the ears, nose, and throat.
Blood and Urine Tests: Checks for underlying health conditions.
Physical and Psychological Evaluation: Ensures overall fitness and mental health.
Evaluation and Certification: After the tests, the medical board reviews the results. If the candidate meets all the required standards a Class 1 Medical Certificate is issued through the eGCA system.
The validity of the Class 1 medical certificate depends on the candidate's age:
Under 40 years: Valid for 12 months.
40 years and above: Valid for 6 months.
It's essential to renew the medical certificate before it expires to avoid any disruptions in training or employment.
The cost of the Class 1 medical examination varies but typically ranges between INR 6,000 and INR 8,500 Additional tests, such as ECG or ECHO may incur extra charges.
For more detailed information and guidance on the Class 1 medical examination process, you can refer to the official DGCA guidelines and resources.