Two pilots within the Air India group have returned “non-negative” results in initial psychoactive substance screenings, leading to their samples being sent for confirmatory laboratory analysis. These preliminary findings do not confirm substance use but indicate the presence of markers requiring further investigation.
Expanded Screening Program Underway
This development comes as Air India significantly expands its pilot drug testing program. The airline made psychoactive substance screening mandatory for all pilots across its group, including Air India Express, starting August 13. Approximately 300-400 pilots have undergone screening since the program’s inception, with the exercise continuing across various bases and training facilities.
The wider screening initiative was implemented following an incident on August 4 involving Air India flight AI2379, an Airbus A320 traveling from Phuket to Delhi. During this flight, the aircraft unexpectedly lost approximately 300 feet of altitude before recovering and safely completing its journey. Some passengers and crew members sustained injuries during the sudden drop.
Previous Incident & Investigation
Both pilots from the Phuket-Delhi flight underwent substance screening immediately after the incident. While the co-pilot's initial test raised no concerns, the pilot-in-command's sample required additional testing. Both were removed from flying duties pending the outcome of tests and investigations.
Sources later indicated that the pilot-in-command's confirmatory test detected marijuana. However, investigators have not linked this finding directly to the aircraft's sudden altitude loss. The drug screening is one component of a broader investigation into the incident.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau is separately examining technical aspects of the AI2379 incident. Post-flight maintenance reports recorded 11 system alerts within a short timeframe, including three low hydraulic-pressure warnings followed by an autopilot disconnect. These technical issues are being thoroughly investigated to determine the cause of the altitude drop.
Until the confirmatory tests for the two recently flagged pilots are completed, they cannot be definitively described as having tested positive for prohibited substances.