Pilot with HIV challenges DGCA's discriminatory flying restrictions

A pilot in Mumbai is challenging a restriction placed on his flying certification by India's aviation authority due to his HIV status. The pilot, who trained in the U.S., was allowed to fly but only if accompanied by a more experienced pilot. He argues that this rule is discriminatory and makes it difficult for him to find a job as a pilot or instructor. The pilot brought his case to the Bombay High Court, claiming that the additional requirement on his license was solely based on his HIV diagnosis. In 2021, after undergoing a medical examination, he was deemed fit for flying. However, he learned about his HIV status later that year, which led to the DGCA declaring him permanently unfit to fly solo. Following this, he appealed and was later classified as fit to fly only as a co-pilot. The DGCA explained that the restriction was based on the risks associated with his treatment. The agency pointed to potential side effects from the anti-retroviral therapy he is receiving and the importance of monitoring his health. The pilot's legal team argued that requiring a more experienced pilot beside him would make him unemployable. They noted that other pilots without HIV do not face similar restrictions. The high court allowed the pilot to withdraw his current petition, giving him the opportunity to challenge the DGCA's decision in the future.