- Initial screening of the Captain of the Phuket-Delhi Air India flight reportedly indicated a substance, but the nature and impairment are not established.
- AAIB steps in, and confirmation is awaited on whether the Captain failed the dope test.
- Until the confirmatory result is released, the initial screening result does not establish the nature of the substance detected or whether the pilot was impaired while operating the flight.
The captain of an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi likely failed a post-flight dope test following a serious incident on August 4, where the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of altitude of approximately 300 feet during cruise, injuring several passengers and crew members.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has initiated an investigation into the incident, which has led to both pilots being removed from duty by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The initial screening test, conducted at Delhi airport, indicated a result requiring confirmatory testing, with samples sent to a designated laboratory for further analysis.12
Air India stated, “We are aware that a post-flight screening test was conducted on the pilots in accordance with applicable protocols. However, the results of the test have not been shared with Air India, and we are therefore not in a position to comment on any findings.” The airline emphasized its commitment to regular drug testing of crew members in compliance with civil aviation regulations.
The Air India A320, operating flight AI2379, was carrying 137 passengers, including three infants, and eight crew members. The aircraft stabilized and landed safely in Delhi after the incident, but the investigation continues as authorities await the confirmatory test results.
“Until the confirmatory result is released, the initial screening does not establish the substance's nature or whether the pilot was impaired while operating the flight. The investigation's outcome could hinge on this confirmatory test, which remains pending.”
