Air India has announced mandatory substance testing for all its pilots after the captain of a Phuket-Delhi flight tested positive for marijuana following a sudden loss of altitude that injured 24 people. The airline will begin the expanded checks from August 13, making Air India pilot drug screening a new group-wide safety measure.
Why Air India ordered wider testing
Air India said it already follows the safety requirements set by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), but has decided to go beyond those rules following the recent incident.
In an internal communication to employees, the airline said the screening will cover substances and medications prohibited under existing regulations. Pilots can undergo testing during training at the Gurugram Academy, after flights at briefing centres and Air India offices, or at locations assigned by their respective bases.
The decision comes days after flight AI2379, travelling from Phuket to Delhi on August 4, suddenly lost around 300 feet of altitude while cruising. Twenty-four people, including four crew members, suffered injuries during the incident.
The pilot-in-command initially returned a screening result that required further testing. A designated laboratory later confirmed the presence of marijuana in the pilot’s sample. Both pilots had undergone psychoactive-substance screening after the aircraft landed in Delhi.
Investigation into flight incident continues
The pilots involved have been taken off the roster while authorities investigate the incident. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is examining what caused the sudden altitude loss, while the DGCA will determine any regulatory action based on the investigation and testing results.
Air India has stressed that the expanded Air India pilot drug screening programme aims to strengthen safety and reassure passengers following the incident.
The airline also highlighted the importance of maintaining public confidence in its pilots and operational standards. The broader testing programme will apply across the Air India group, including Air India Express.
The DGCA’s existing regulations already prohibit flight crew from operating while under the influence of psychoactive substances that could affect their ability to perform safety-critical duties.
FAQs
Q: Why has Air India introduced Air India pilot drug screening?
A: Air India expanded testing after the captain of the Phuket-Delhi flight tested positive for marijuana following the August 4 incident.
Q: When will Air India pilot drug screening begin?
A: The airline said mandatory screening for its pilots will begin on August 13, 2026.
Q: What happened on the Phuket-Delhi flight?
A: Flight AI2379 suddenly lost around 300 feet of altitude during cruise, injuring 24 people, including four crew members.
Q: Who is investigating the flight incident?
A: The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau is investigating the incident, while the DGCA will handle regulatory action based on its findings.