Air India Pilot Tests Positive for Marijuana After Phuket-Delhi Flight Drops 300 Feet
Delhi, India : The pilot of an Air India Phuket-Delhi flight that suddenly lost altitude last week has reportedly tested positive for marijuana in a confirmatory drug test, according to people familiar with the matter.
The incident occurred on August 4, when flight AI2379 dropped around 300 feet during its journey from Phuket to Delhi, leaving 20 passengers and four crew members injured. The aircraft was carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members and later landed safely in Delhi.
A preliminary drug screening of the pilot had earlier returned a “non-negative” result. Following the required procedure, the sample was sent to a designated laboratory for confirmation. The confirmatory test has now reportedly detected marijuana.
Both pilots were taken off roster by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) while the investigation continues.
Technical issues also under investigation
The drug-test finding is only one part of the ongoing probe. Officials are also examining whether technical problems contributed to the sudden loss of altitude.
According to a preliminary defect report prepared by the pilots, the aircraft experienced several issues, including an autopilot disconnection, a stall warning and a flight-control ECAM message.
Authorities are therefore looking into all possible factors behind the incident, including a suspected technical fault.
Air India has declined to comment on the pilot’s test results, saying that the investigation is still underway and that the airline will cooperate fully with the authorities.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is investigating the incident, while the DGCA will decide on regulatory action based on the investigation and prescribed testing process.
Two crew members who suffered spinal injuries during the incident remain hospitalised, according to the civil aviation minister.
News source: Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.
