The pilot-in-command of an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi tested positive for a psychoactive substance in a confirmatory laboratory test, following a serious incident where the aircraft suddenly lost altitude during cruise before landing safely. Twenty passengers and four cabin crew members were injured, with several admitted to hospital. Both pilots underwent mandatory screening, and while the pilot-in-command required confirmatory testing, the co-pilot’s result was not flagged as positive. Sources said the substance was marijuana, though authorities have not officially identified it.
India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation has removed both flight crew members from active rostering pending the investigation. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau is examining flight data, records, medical information, and witness testimony, and has urged the public and media to avoid speculation.
Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu summoned Air India’s senior leadership, including the chief executive, to discuss safety standards. Naidu stated that safety would not be compromised and regulations could be tightened if gaps are found in current screening protocols.