DGCA Empanels Private Aeromedical Centers: A New Era for Civil Aviation Medicals

In a landmark decision, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has chosen to empanel private aeromedical centers for conducting civil aviation medical tests. This initiative, praised by ALPA India, signals an end to the reliance on Indian Air Force centers for these evaluations.

The Airline Pilots' Association of India (ALPA India) has long advocated for such a change, citing the need for a distinct separation between military and civil medical evaluations and the adoption of global aviation best practices. The move, slated to take effect on November 15, 2025, is expected to bring greater efficiency and compliance with international norms.

Previously, pilots were required to undergo every fifth medical evaluation at an IAF center, which often resulted in unnecessary pilot groundings. By transitioning to modern, civilian infrastructure, the DGCA aims to streamline the process and resolve longstanding issues of standardization and transparency.