New rule worries Indian airlines, may cause pilot shortage

Indian airlines are concerned about a new rule requiring commercial pilots to undergo medical tests exclusively at Indian Air Force centers. This change follows a co-pilot's death due to cardiac issues. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) previously allowed medical tests at private hospitals. Airline executives worry about stricter military standards, potentially leading to pilot shortages and flight disruptions due to limited IAF resources. The new rule, prompted by concerns over falsified medical records, has raised fears of increased insurance costs and a pilot shortage. India is now the only country still using defense establishments for civil pilot medicals.