What Happens if You Fail a DGCA Medical Test?
Becoming a pilot is a dream powered by determination — but before taking off, you must clear one vital step: the DGCA medical test. This examination ensures every pilot meets the physical and mental standards required to fly safely. However, what if you fail a DGCA medical test? Does it end your aviation journey? Can you try again? The answer is no — it doesn’t end your dream. In this detailed guide by Top Crew Aviation, we’ll explain what happens after a failed medical, how you can reapply, and what steps to take for recovery and approval.

Understanding the DGCA Medical Test

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) mandates medical tests for all aspiring and active pilots in India. It checks your physical and psychological health to ensure you are fit to fly.

Types of DGCA Medicals:

  1. Class 2 Medical: For Student and Private Pilot Licenses.
  2. Class 1 Medical: For Commercial Pilot Licenses (CPL) and Airline jobs.
These tests include eye exams, hearing, ECG, blood/urine tests, chest X-rays, and psychological evaluations. Read Also:- How DGCA Medicals Impact Your CPL Journey

What Does “Failing a DGCA Medical” Mean?

Failing doesn’t mean you can never become a pilot — it simply means you are “Medically Unfit” at that moment. DGCA examiners mark results in three ways:
  1. Fit – You meet all standards.
  2. Temporary Unfit – Minor issue; re-evaluation needed after treatment.
  3. Permanently Unfit – Condition disqualifies you from flying (rare cases).

Common Reasons for DGCA Medical Failure

Here are the top causes why candidates may fail or be declared temporarily unfit:
  1. Vision Issues – Colour blindness, weak eyesight beyond DGCA limits.
  2. High Blood Pressure – Uncontrolled BP or heart rhythm problems.
  3. Obesity / BMI Issues – BMI beyond 30 may lead to temporary disqualification.
  4. Psychological Imbalance – Anxiety, depression, or mental instability.
  5. ENT Problems – Chronic sinus, ear infections, or balance disorders.
  6. Abnormal ECG – Irregular heartbeat or cardiac abnormalities.
  7. Lung or Chest Problems – X-ray showing infections or asthma.
  8. Blood Sugar / Diabetes – Especially uncontrolled or insulin-dependent.
  9. Kidney or Liver Disorders – Abnormal enzyme levels detected in tests.
  10. Substance Use – Drug or alcohol traces during testing.
Most of these causes are temporary and treatable with medical help.

What Happens Immediately After You Fail

If a DGCA-approved doctor finds you unfit:
  1. You’ll receive a “Temporary Unfit” certificate.
  2. The reason for unfitness will be clearly mentioned.
  3. The examiner will recommend a specialist consultation or further tests.
  4. Once treated, you can apply for re-evaluation after the waiting period.
If declared Permanently Unfit, you can appeal through DGCA’s Medical Review Board (MRB).

Temporary Unfit vs Permanent Unfit

Category Meaning Next Step
Temporary Unfit Short-term issue (e.g., sinus, BP, BMI, infection) Treat, recover, and reapply
Permanent Unfit Chronic or irreversible medical condition File appeal or choose alternate aviation role
Top Crew Aviation assists students in both cases by helping arrange specialist consultations and guiding documentation for re-medical assessments.

How Long Before You Can Reapply?

Usually, you can reapply 30–90 days after treatment (depends on your medical condition). Example:
  • High BP: After 4–6 weeks of stable readings.
  • BMI/Obesity: After weight reduction of 2–3 points.
  • Sinus/Ear infection: After ENT clearance within 1 month.
Once your doctor approves, submit reports through the eGCA portal for re-assessment.

Re-Evaluation Process on eGCA Portal

Here’s how to reapply for a DGCA medical test:
  1. Log in to https://egca.gov.in
  2. Select Medical → Re-Examination.
  3. Upload your previous medical report and specialist clearance certificate.
  4. Choose a DGCA-approved examiner.
  5. Wait for your DGCA Medical Assessment (usually 10–15 working days)
Top Crew Aviation provides complete guidance on re-examination booking and eGCA document uploads.

Can You Appeal a “Permanent Unfit” Status?

Yes. If you’re declared permanently unfit but you or your specialist believes the condition is curable or misjudged, you can appeal to the: DGCA Medical Review Board (MRB)
  • Submit an appeal letter within 60 days.
  • Include all relevant medical reports, doctor opinions, and test results.
  • The MRB will review your case and may order a re-test or grant approval.
Top Crew Aviation helps prepare appeal documentation and connects you with DGCA-approved specialists for second opinions.

Alternative Aviation Careers if Unfit to Fly

If medical recovery is difficult, don’t lose heart — aviation offers many roles beyond flying. Here are some career options you can pursue:
  1. Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME)
  2. Air Traffic Controller (ATC)
  3. Aviation Management & Ground Operations
  4. Flight Dispatcher
  5. Cabin Crew / Flight Attendant
  6. Aviation Safety Officer
  7. Digital Aviation Marketing (with Top Crew Aviation)
These careers still keep you connected to the skies — without needing a DGCA medical clearance.

Tips to Prevent Failing a DGCA Medical Test

  1. Stay Fit Regularly – Maintain a BMI between 18.5 and 29.9.
  2. Control BP & Sugar – Avoid stress, junk food, and late nights.
  3. Avoid Alcohol & Smoking – At least 72 hours before medical.
  4. Exercise & Yoga: Keeps heart and lungs in top shape.
  5. Sleep 8 Hours Before Test – Fatigue can alter results.
  6. Stay Hydrated: Helps in blood and urine clarity.
  7. Regular Eye & ENT Check-ups – Early treatment avoids surprises.
Top Crew Aviation mentors students months before their medical to ensure they meet all DGCA health standards confidently.

Re-Medical Cost Estimate

Type Approx. Fee (₹) Duration
Class 2 Re-Medical ₹1500 – ₹2500 1 week
Class 1 Re-Medical ₹4000 – ₹6000 10–15 days
Specialist Consultations ₹500 – ₹2000 Per visit
DGCA does not charge separately for re-validation once approved.

How Top Crew Aviation Helps You Recover & Reapply

Top Crew Aviation supports aspiring pilots every step of the way:
  1. Guidance for DGCA-approved doctors near your city.
  2. Help with medical documentation & report uploads on eGCA.
  3. Expert tips to improve physical and mental fitness.
  4. Scheduling and re-medical booking support.
  5. Assistance in appeal preparation for the Medical Review Board.
Top Crew Aviation’s experienced team ensures your DGCA medical journey stays smooth and stress-free.

Real-Life Example

A student from Pune failed his Class 2 Medical due to sinus issues. With help from Top Crew Aviation, he consulted an ENT specialist, completed treatment, and reapplied after 45 days. He passed successfully — and today, he’s training for his CPL. Moral: Failure is temporary; persistence is permanent.

Conclusion: One Failure Doesn’t Define Your Flight

Failing a DGCA medical test can feel disappointing, but it’s not the end of your aviation dream. Most issues are temporary and curable with proper care and guidance. Stay healthy, follow DGCA recommendations, and seek expert support when needed. With the right mindset — and a bit of patience — your dream cockpit seat is still waiting for you. And remember, Top Crew Aviation will be right beside you, helping you clear your re-medical and continue your pilot journey with confidence.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I become a pilot if I fail my DGCA medical?

Yes. If declared “Temporary Unfit,” you can reapply after treatment.

How long before I can retake my DGCA medical?

Usually after 1–3 months, depending on the condition.

What if I’m declared permanently unfit?

You can appeal to the DGCA Medical Review Board within 60 days.

Can eyesight disqualify me from flying?

Only if uncorrectable. Glasses or lenses within DGCA limits are acceptable.

How can Top Crew Aviation help?

They guide students through re-medical steps, doctor selection, and eGCA uploads.