HIV Positive Pilot Challenges DGCA’s Restriction on Flying Solo: Bombay HC

The DGCA apprised the Bombay High Court that an HIV+ pilot is fit to fly commercially as a Pilot in Command (PIC) but only with a Co-pilot. 

The pilot contested this as discriminatory, referencing ICAO guidelines, and his FAA First Class Medical Certificate from the U.S.

DGCA defended its stance, citing the side effects of anti-retroviral therapy (ART) and disease progression risks.

The pilot, dissatisfied with the decision, claimed that the requirement for an experienced co-pilot drastically limits his employment opportunities in the aviation industry. 

Hence, withdrew his petition to file a fresh challenge.