New Delhi, Jul 22 (IANS): With a view to facilitate boarding and flying for disabled (Divyangjan) people, the aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has amended rules.

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 on July 21 to improve the accessibility of boarding and flying for disabled (Divyangjan) people, said a senior DGCA official.

The proposed amendment has been carried out at Para 4.1.35 of the CAR.

"Airlines shall not refuse carriage of any person on the basis of disability and/or reduced mobility. 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.

"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," said the DGCA.

Last month, a private airline had refused to board a passenger with special needs because he was perceived to be in a state of panic and considered a safety risk.