Air India Phuket-Delhi Pilot Flags Positive in Initial Dope Test After Altitude Drop

New Delhi: The pilot of the recent Air India Phuket-Delhi flight, which encountered turbulence earlier this week, appears to have tested positive for psychoactive substances in a dope test conducted upon arrival. However, Air India said it is not aware of the test result.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) said on Sunday that as part of the Standard Operating Procedures following such an occurrence, both flight crew members underwent the prescribed psychoactive substance screening test. The screening test in respect of the Pilot-in-Command (PIC) indicated a result requiring confirmatory testing. Samples have accordingly been sent to the designated laboratory for confirmatory analysis, and the final report is awaited.

MoCA said the occurrence has been classified as a “serious incident” and is under investigation by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB). Pending investigation and completion of the prescribed process, both flight crew members have been taken off roster by the DGCA.

“Further action, as appropriate, will be taken based on the outcome of the investigation and confirmatory test results. The Ministry of Civil Aviation and the DGCA remains firmly committed to maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety and ensuring that all such occurrences are thoroughly investigated and appropriate action is taken in accordance with the prescribed regulations and procedures,” the ministry spokesperson said,

Air India A320 aircraft VT-EXO, operating flight AI2379 from Phuket to Delhi, experienced a sudden loss of altitude of approximately 300 feet during cruise, following which the aircraft stabilised and subsequently landed safely at Delhi. During the occurrence, injuries were reported to a few passengers and cabin crew members on board. The aircraft was carrying 137 passengers, including 03 infants, and 08 crew members comprising two pilots and six cabin crew.