Air India is significantly tightening its internal safety checks after a pilot involved in a recent mid-air incident tested positive for marijuana. The airline will begin mandatory substance testing for all its pilots from Thursday, going beyond the minimum testing requirements prescribed by aviation regulators.
The expanded testing programme will also cover pilots working with Air India Express. According to an internal communication sent to employees, pilots will be screened for substances and medications prohibited under aviation regulations.
The airline plans to conduct these tests alongside training sessions at its Gurugram academy, as well as after flights at briefing centres and offices. Pilots may also be tested at locations designated according to their home bases.
Air India moves beyond minimum regulatory requirement
Under existing aviation rules, airlines are required to randomly test at least 10% of their flight crew for psychoactive substances every year. Air India has now decided to expand the scope of testing across its entire pilot workforce.
The airline said the move was being introduced to strengthen safety standards and provide greater reassurance to passengers and other stakeholders.
The decision comes at a particularly sensitive time for the airline, with authorities examining an incident involving an Air India Airbus A320neo that was flying from Phuket to Delhi on August 4.
Pilot tested positive after aircraft lost altitude
The aircraft reportedly experienced a sudden loss of around 300 feet, or approximately 91 metres, while cruising. The incident prompted further scrutiny, including testing of the crew.
According to a source familiar with the matter, the captain subsequently tested positive for marijuana in a confirmatory drug test.
The development has added another layer to the investigation into what happened during the flight and has placed renewed attention on the importance of ensuring that pilots are medically and mentally fit to operate aircraft.
Testing will include prohibited medicines and substances
Air India’s expanded programme is not limited to recreational drugs. The airline’s internal memo states that the screening will also look for substances and medications prohibited under aviation regulations.
By extending testing to all pilots, the airline is seeking to create a broader safety net rather than relying only on random checks.
The initiative also comes as the aviation industry continues to face intense scrutiny over operational safety, crew fitness and compliance with regulations.
Air India yet to comment publicly
Air India had not immediately responded to requests for comment regarding the expanded testing programme.
The airline’s decision nevertheless represents a significant step beyond the minimum regulatory requirement and comes directly after an incident that has raised questions about pilot fitness and flight safety.
The August 4 incident and the subsequent positive drug test are expected to remain under investigation as authorities work to establish the circumstances surrounding the aircraft’s sudden altitude loss.