Air India pilot tests positive for marijuana after serious flight incident

An Air India pilot who was in command of a flight from Phuket to Delhi on August 4 has tested positive for marijuana in a confirmatory drug test, according to sources, prompting fresh scrutiny of the airline and aviation safety procedures.

The pilot’s initial drug screening was “non-negative” after the aircraft suddenly lost around 300 feet during cruise, an incident that left 17 people hospitalised. Both pilots have been removed from flying duties while the incident is investigated, Indian media reports.

India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is examining the serious incident, including weather conditions, the pilots’ response, possible aircraft damage and the decision to continue the flight to Delhi.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is also considering tighter drug-testing requirements for pilots and stricter action against repeat violations.

By Sabina Mamamdli