Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Pilot Fails Dope Test After Turbulence Incident, Taken Off Flying Duties: Reports
A pilot of an Air India flight that encountered severe turbulence over Odisha on August 4 has reportedly tested positive for a psychoactive substance during a post-flight screening, according to a report in The Times Of India. The development comes days after the aircraft, operating from Phuket to Delhi, experienced a sudden drop that left several passengers and crew members injured. Pilot…
An Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi experienced severe turbulence on August 4, leaving several passengers and crew members injured. The incident occurred near Odisha, with the aircraft dropping around 300 feet. Following the event, one of the pilots tested positive for a psychoactive substance during post-flight screening. Reports suggest the substance detected was marijuana, though the results have not been officially confirmed by Air India or the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Both pilots have been taken off flying duties pending further investigation into the incident. The DGCA is examining various aspects, including the handling of the turbulence, the aircraft's condition, and whether an alternate airport, such as Varanasi or Lucknow, should have been considered. Under DGCA regulations, a first-time positive test for psychoactive substances can lead to the crew member undergoing de-addiction and rehabilitation, with return to flying duties contingent on completing the prescribed process and testing negative.
Repeat positive results could result in more severe consequences, including the suspension or cancellation of the crew member's license.
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