Becoming a Commercial Pilot in India is a dream that starts with clearing two crucial milestones—DGCA Class 2 Medical and DGCA Class 1 Medical examinations. While Class 2 is required for a Student Pilot License (SPL), Class 1 is mandatory for obtaining a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and for working with airlines.
The DGCA Class 1 Medical is a more detailed and rigorous health assessment conducted only at DGCA-empaneled medical centers. Many aspiring pilots feel stressed about this stage, but with proper preparation and guidance, it is a smooth process.
In this blog, FMS Aviation Academy walks you through the step-by-step process of DGCA Class 1 Medical Exam, including eligibility, documents, tests, costs, and tips to clear it successfully.
The DGCA Class 1 Medical is a comprehensive health assessment that ensures an aspiring pilot is fit for professional flying. It is conducted by designated DGCA-approved centers such as:
AFCME (Air Force Central Medical Establishment), New Delhi
IAM (Institute of Aerospace Medicine), Bangalore
MEC (East), Kolkata
DGCA Empaneled IAF Centers
It is mandatory for:
Students applying for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
Pilots seeking employment in airlines
Renewal of medicals for existing CPL/ATPL holders
Visit eGCA DGCA Portal.
Register and log in using your details.
Select Class 1 Medical Appointment.
Choose the preferred center (AFCME, IAM, MEC, etc.).
Submit the application and keep a copy of your acknowledgment.
💡 Tip from FMS: Apply at least 2–3 months in advance as slots are limited.
Once your slot is approved, DGCA will send an appointment confirmation.
Check your email/eGCA dashboard for date and instructions.
Carry the following on the day of examination:
Aadhaar card / Passport (valid ID proof)
10th & 12th mark sheets (for DOB verification & academics)
2–3 passport-size photographs
Previous medical certificates (Class 2, if applicable)
Filled DGCA medical forms (download from eGCA portal)
Any past medical history or reports (if relevant)
Reach the assigned DGCA medical center on your appointment date.
Registration and verification of documents are done at the reception.
You’ll be guided through different test stations throughout the day.
The DGCA Class 1 Medical includes detailed health checks covering multiple body systems:
Physical Examination
Height, weight, BMI, blood pressure, pulse
General health evaluation
Eye Examination (Ophthalmology)
Visual acuity (must be 6/6, glasses/contact lenses allowed)
Color vision (Ishihara test – color blindness is disqualifying)
Depth perception (stereopsis test)
Eye muscle balance and overall eye health
ENT Examination (Ear, Nose, Throat)
Hearing check (audiogram if required)
Balance and sinus check
Ear canal & eardrum health
Cardiovascular Tests
ECG (Electrocardiogram) – resting heart rhythm
TMT (Treadmill Test) – heart response to exercise
Blood pressure & cardiac health check
Pathology Tests (Blood & Urine)
Blood sugar, hemogram, cholesterol, liver & kidney function
Urine routine & microscopic
Radiology Tests
Chest X-ray – lungs and heart size evaluation
Ultrasound abdomen – abdominal organ health
Other Examinations
Dental check (basic oral health)
Psychological/neurological assessment (if required)
All your reports are compiled and uploaded to the DGCA eGCA portal by the medical center.
You may receive a copy of your results for personal records.
DGCA’s medical board reviews your reports.
If found fit, you are issued the Class 1 Medical Certificate (also called the CML – Computerized Medical Assessment).
In case of issues, you may be declared “Temporary Unfit” and asked to undergo further tests.
Under 40 years: Valid for 12 months
Above 40 years: Valid for 6 months (especially for airline transport pilots)
Renewal must be done before expiry to maintain license validity.
Typical range: ₹7,000 – ₹12,000
May vary depending on additional investigations recommended (MRI, CT, etc.).
Travel and stay costs should also be considered since Class 1 centers are limited.
Vision issues not corrected to 6/6
Color blindness (permanent disqualification)
Cardiac issues (abnormal ECG, hypertension)
High BMI/obesity-related complications
Psychiatric or neurological conditions (e.g., epilepsy, depression)
💡 Tip from FMS: Maintain fitness, avoid alcohol/smoking before tests, and keep past medical history ready.
At FMS Aviation Academy, we ensure students are well-prepared for Class 1 Medicals by offering:
Guidance on eGCA registration & application process
List of DGCA-approved centers & booking support
Pre-medical fitness checklists (vision, BMI, fitness counseling)
Support for students declared Temporary Unfit (retakes, additional tests)
Counseling & mentoring to keep students confident through the process
Clearing the DGCA Class 1 Medical Examination is a major milestone on your journey to becoming a professional pilot. While it is a detailed process, with proper preparation and guidance, it is absolutely achievable.
At FMS Aviation Academy, we help aspiring pilots with the entire medical process – Class 2 and Class 1 – so they can focus on their training and career goals.
👉 Ready to start your pilot journey?
Contact FMS Aviation Academy today and get expert guidance on DGCA Medicals and Pilot Training.
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