Before you begin your journey as a pilot, clearing the DGCA Class 1 medical exam is a must. It ensures you are medically fit to undergo professional flight training and apply for a commercial pilot license in India.
Here’s what the medical exam usually includes:
This exam is required by all flight training institutes and is a standard step in pilot training. Make sure you are well-prepared with the correct documents before booking your medical appointment.
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#
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Program Name
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Class Type
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Batch Start Date
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Enroll Now
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#1
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DGCA Ground Classes
Preparatory Classes |
Online/Offline
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4th August, 2025
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Enroll Now |
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#1
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INDIGO CADET PROGRAM
Preparatory Classes |
Online/Offline
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1st July, 2025
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Enroll Now |
Starting your aviation journey begins not just with passion, but with preparation—especially your medical fitness. The DGCA Class 1 medical exam is one of the most important steps for those who dream of becoming professional pilots. It ensures that you meet the physical and mental standards required by DGCA approved flying schools and aviation authorities in India.
If you're aiming to join a reputed aviation academy in India or enroll in any flight training institute, the DGCA Class 1 medical is compulsory. It certifies that you are fit to operate commercial aircraft and obtain a commercial pilot license.
Ideally, you should undergo the Class 1 medical before or during the early stages of your training. Most aviation academies in India require proof of medical clearance before enrollment into the flying phase.
The following are the standard assessments:
Ensures both distant and near vision meet aviation standards.
Audiometry tests confirm adequate hearing for cockpit communication.
Includes ECG and blood pressure analysis.
Evaluates lung health and identifies possible underlying issues.
Checks for infections, diabetes, and general health indicators.
General physical fitness and any signs of long-term health risks.
Basic psychological stability evaluation.
Your past illnesses or surgeries are reviewed to assess flying fitness.
Ensures no substance abuse issues.
Examines ears, nose, and throat for abnormalities.
| City | Approved Centres | Booking Method |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | Air Force Central Medical | Online Appointment |
| Mumbai | Nanavati Hospital | Phone Call |
| Bangalore | Apollo Hospital | Online/Offline |
| Hyderabad | DGCA Medical Examiner | Walk-in |
Always book your medical test with DGCA-approved doctors only.
Once you clear your Class 1 medical, you will receive a Medical Assessment Certificate. This is essential for enrollment into flight training institutes and for applying for a commercial pilot license.
The DGCA Class 1 medical exam is not something to fear—it’s a routine part of the journey to becoming a pilot. Being medically fit is as important as technical training. Ensure you're well-prepared, understand the process, and choose a certified aviation academy India trusts.
Your Career Deserves Clarity, Not Confusion
The DGCA Class 1 Medical Exam is the first major step for anyone planning to become a commercial pilot in India. It checks your physical and mental fitness to make sure you can safely handle flying responsibilities. Whether you're planning to train at one of the DGCA approved flying schools or enroll in a private aviation academy in India, this exam is mandatory.
Before starting pilot training in India, students must show they are medically fit to begin flying lessons and complete their training. Without a valid Class 1 medical certificate, you cannot apply for a commercial pilot license, even if you’ve completed your training hours. Most flight training institutes will ask for your medical clearance before enrollment or before starting flying hours.
This exam is required for:
The Class 1 medical exam consists of several health checks to ensure that you are fit to fly under different conditions.
Your eyesight is tested with and without glasses. Acceptable limits are defined by DGCA.
An audiometry test is conducted to check if you can hear sounds clearly in both ears.
Your heart rhythm and blood pressure are checked to rule out cardiovascular risks.
This helps detect any lung issues that may interfere with breathing at altitude.
These tests look for any infection, blood sugar issues, or signs of substance use.
A basic physical exam that includes your weight, height, posture, and coordination.
This ensures that you are mentally fit and emotionally stable for the duties of a pilot.
Your ears, nose, and throat are checked, as changes in altitude can affect them.
Used to ensure there’s no substance dependency.
Doctors may ask about surgeries, illnesses, or medication you’ve used recently.
Make sure to book only with DGCA-approved medical examiners.
| City | Centre Name | Type | Booking Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | Air Force Central Medical | Govt | Online |
| Mumbai | Nanavati Hospital | Private | Call/Email |
| Bengaluru | Manipal Hospital | Private | Online |
| Hyderabad | DGCA Examiner Panel | Private | Walk-in |
| Kolkata | Command Hospital | Govt | Pre-booking |
Before attending your DGCA Class 1 medical exam, make sure to carry the following documents. Having everything in place helps avoid delays or rejection at the medical centre.
Tip: Carry a folder with originals and photocopies. Some centres may request copies for their records.
Golden Epaulettes Aviation offers full support to students preparing for their DGCA Class 1 medical exam, making the process simple and stress-free.
We help students schedule their DGCA Class 1 medical at approved centres across India with guidance on availability and examiners.
We provide a checklist and help prepare all required documents to avoid last-minute issues.
Our team shares helpful tips to stay healthy and ready — including rest, hydration, and eating habits.
If additional medical tests are needed, we help coordinate the next steps with the medical centre.
After medical clearance, we guide you toward DGCA approved flying schools, pilot training in India, and the full commercial pilot license process.
If you pass the exam, you’ll receive a Class 1 Medical Assessment Certificate. It’s valid for one year (for those under 40). This certificate is required by all flight training institutes in India.
The DGCA Class 1 medical exam is a necessary step toward becoming a commercial pilot. It ensures you're medically fit before starting training at any aviation academy India has to offer. Completing this early ensures you’re ready to move forward with your flight training without delays.
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