Without doctor’s opinion, Airlines can’t deny boarding to disabled passenger: DGCA

July 22: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said in a statement that airlines cannot refuse boarding to any passenger on the basis of their disability.

The regulator had proposed the aforementioned regulations on June 3, six days after it had imposed a fine of Rs 5 lakh on IndiGo for denying boarding to a disabled boy at Ranchi airport on May 7. In a statement on Friday, the DGCA said it has amended its regulations to improve the accessibility of boarding and flying for disabled people. The amended regulations stated that the airline must not refuse boarding to any passengers on the basis of disability or reduced mobility.

The amended regulations further stated, “However, in case, an airline perceives that the health of such a passenger may deteriorate in-flight, the said passenger will have to be examined by a doctor in person – who shall in his/her opinion, categorically state the medical condition and whether the passenger is fit to fly or not.” In such cases, the Airlines will have to inform the person and provide its reason in writing.