DGCA Issues Updated Medical Circular for Class 1 and Class 2 Pilot Candidates

The DGCA Medical Directorate has issued an updated public circular clarifying regulatory guidelines for Class 1 and Class 2 medical examinations, expanding private hospital empanelment for pilot medicals, and streamlining post-refractive surgery clearance protocols.

Key Policy Highlights

1. Expanded Class 1 Examination Centres: To resolve the historical backlog at Air Force medical boards (IAM Bengaluru and AFCME New Delhi), the DGCA has accredited additional designated civil tertiary care hospital centres in major metros including Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi.
2. Clarifications on LASIK & Refractive Procedures: The circular standardises pre-requisites for candidates who have undergone LASIK, SMILE, or PRK eye surgeries, confirming eligibility provided post-operative stability of 6 months is documented with compliant corneal thickness.
3. Seamless eGCA Digital Renewals: Periodic medical renewals for active airline pilots and flight instructors can now be completed through empaneled Class 1 examiners with instant provisional certification.

Steps for Aspiring Pilot Cadets

Obtaining your medical clearance early prevents training disruptions. For a full, step-by-step walkthrough of tests, required paperwork, and empaneled doctor lists, read our Complete DGCA Class 2 Medical Guide (2026).

Continue Your Pilot Training Pathway

• How to Start After 12th: Read our foundational roadmap on How to Become a Pilot After 12th.
• DGCA Ground School: Learn about the theory exams in The 5 DGCA Ground School Papers Guide.
• Commercial Pilot Program: Explore our full curriculum at Aviora Pilot Training.
• Admissions Support: Get personalized help booking your medical through Aviora Admissions or Contact Us.