Air India captain’s initial drug test prompts further probe after sudden altitude loss
The final report is pending
On August 9, the captain of an Air India flight from Phuket to New Delhi faced further investigation after an initial drug screening returned abnormal results. The incident occurred on August 4 when the aircraft encountered a sudden loss of altitude of around 300 feet during its cruise. Despite stabilizing and landing safely in Delhi, both crew members underwent a psychoactive substance screening procedure following the event.
The pilot's test yielded results necessitating further laboratory analysis. Samples are currently being dispatched to a designated lab, awaiting the definitive report. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has placed both crew members on leave until the investigation concludes, classifying the event as a "serious incident." The ministry has not disclosed the specific substance detected in the initial test.
Air India acknowledged the post-flight screening but has not received the results. The airline expressed its regular drug testing compliance with regulations and its intent to cooperate with authorities. This event occurs amid increased scrutiny of India's aviation sector following a series of safety-related investigations and regulatory reviews.
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