Can airline refuse to carry me due to health condition?

What the Law Says

Indian aviation law permits airlines to deny carriage on medical grounds to ensure safety of passengers and crew. The legal basis lies in the Aircraft Rules, 1937 and binding civil aviation requirements issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

Under Rule 134(3) of the Aircraft Rules, 1937, no person shall be carried in an aircraft unless they are 'fit to be carried' — meaning medically fit to withstand normal flight conditions without endangering themselves or others.

The DGCA’s Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) Section 3 – Air Transport Series 'M' (Medical Aspects of Air Travel) mandates that passengers with certain medical conditions — such as unstable cardiac disease, recent surgery, severe respiratory illness, or contagious infections — must obtain a 'fit-to-fly' certificate from a registered medical practitioner before travel.

Airlines may also require advance notice (typically at least 48 hours) for passengers needing special assistance or medical clearance. Failure to comply may result in refusal of boarding — even after ticket purchase.

Statutory Text

No person shall be carried in an aircraft unless he is fit to be carried therein.

— Aircraft Rules, 1937, r. 134(3) — Carriage of persons

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