Airlines have to inform in writing for refusing boarding to persons with disability, says DGCA

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) announced on Friday that from now, all airlines must notify in writing if they decline to board a passenger who has a disability.

“Under the amended rule, Airline shall not refuse carriage of any person on the basis of disability and/or reduced mobility if it happens then airlines have informed the passenger with a disability in writing with the reasons therein immediately,” said DGCA.

The Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) Section-3, Series M Part I, “Carriage by Air – Persons with Disability (Divyangjan) and/or Persons with Reduced Mobility” was amended by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Thursday in order to improve the accessibility of boarding and flying for people with disabilities. Airlines are not permitted to refuse to carry someone on account of a disability or decreased mobility, according to the modified rule.

However, if an airline believes that a passenger’s health may deteriorate while in flight, the passenger will need to visit a doctor in person for an examination. The doctor will, in his or her opinion, categorically state the patient’s medical condition and whether the passenger is fit to fly or not.

“After obtaining the medical opinion, the airline shall take an appropriate decision on the carriage of such passengers. In case of refusal of carriage by the airline, it shall inform the passenger in writing with the reasons therein immediately,” says the amended rule.