AVIATION officials have granted a Glasgow man who is HIV positive the chance to become a commercial pilot after regulations previously stopped him.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has now reversed a decision not to grant the man, who wishes to remain anonymous and is known as Anthony, a medical certificate.

Anthony had been offered a place on an EasyJet training programme, which had been extended to June while he fought his case.

MSP Bob Doris, who represents Maryhill and Springburn, revealed on Thursday that the CAA had made a U-turn.

The CAA said they will issue an initial Class 1 medical certificate with a restriction to multi-pilot operations to applicants wishing to become commercial pilots, subject to them passing their Class 1 medical assessment.

Mr Doris said: "Before Christmas I won the backing of our First Minister against the discrimination facing my constituent whilst seeking to become a commercial pilot because he had HIV. On Thursday, the CAA contacted myself and the FM to say they will now allow my constituent the opportunity to secure the required certification they previously refused (subject to passing his class 1 medical assessment).

"I am delighted the CAA have responded to the representations that I and others have made on behalf of my constituent. This rule change means Anthony has the opportunity to pursue his dream of becoming a commercial pilot, ending the injustice and discrimination he faced. I very much hope this rule change will soon be adopted by EASA to ensure such discrimination ends right across Europe. My thanks to HIV Scotland for all their support and to the First Minister for responding so strongly to my representations. I pay tribute to the absolute determination of my constituent who refused to accept this injustice."

HIV Scotland said the decision was a massive win for those living with the condition.

Nathan Sparling, Head of Policy and Campaigning at HIV Scotland, said: "This is a massive win for people living with HIV who want to become pilots. It is because Anthony came forward with his story that the CAA is now taking a more sensible and realistic approach. The decision brings the UK’s aviation policy up to date with medical evidence that recognises the important advances in treatment for HIV, whilst maintaining the same high level of safety you can expect for air travel.

"We welcome the move that provides an immediate temporary solution whilst the necessary work is completed to ensure a permanent rule change. HIV Scotland has been proud to work with Anthony in this campaign, and we appreciate the support of everyone who got involved. We look forward to continuing to work with everyone concerned to ensure that people living with HIV who want to become pilots can pursue their dreams."