The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) is considering significantly tougher drug testing regulations for pilots and other aviation personnel after an Air India pilot tested positive for marijuana. This review follows an incident involving Air India flight AI2379, where the aircraft unexpectedly lost altitude.
Sources indicate that MoCA has directed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to re-evaluate existing Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) concerning psychoactive substance testing. Proposed amendments could include an increase in random drug tests, suspension of licenses for violations, and even criminal prosecution in severe cases.
Incident Prompts Policy Shift
The policy discussions were triggered by an event on August 4, 2026, when Air India flight AI2379, an Airbus A320 (registered VT-EXO) traveling from Phuket to Delhi, experienced a sudden loss of approximately 300 feet in altitude during its cruise phase. While the aircraft later stabilized and landed safely in Delhi with all 145 people on board, the incident prompted immediate action.
Both pilots underwent mandatory psychoactive substance screening after the flight. Subsequent confirmatory tests revealed that the pilot-in-command had tested positive for marijuana. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is currently investigating the incident, receiving assistance from France’s Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety (BEA) and Airbus.
Reportedly, 20 passengers and four cabin crew members sustained injuries during the unexpected altitude drop.
Enhanced Airline Responsibility and Enforcement
MoCA is reportedly seeking "exemplary action" in the AI2379 case and aims to increase the accountability of airlines in ensuring strict adherence to drug-testing protocols. India already maintains one of the most stringent alcohol testing frameworks for pilots, including regular random breathalyser checks. The ministry now intends to extend a similar rigorous approach to psychoactive substances.
Top MoCA sources affirmed that the "random testing module can be increased," signaling a clear intent to bolster oversight and deterrence against substance use among aviation professionals to uphold passenger safety.