Captain of Air India flight that injured 24 is investigated after drug reports

India's aviation ministry is awaiting drug test results for the captain of an Air India flight that suddenly dropped 300 feet midair last week, injuring 24 passengers and crew members. The incident occurred on Aug. 4 while the Airbus A320 was en route from Phuket, Thailand to New Delhi, carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members.

Both pilots underwent routine screening for psychoactive substances following the landing, and the captain's initial test result required further confirmation. The aviation ministry is conducting an independent investigation, which includes reviewing flight data, aircraft systems, maintenance records and interviewing those involved.

France's air accident investigation agency and aircraft manufacturer Airbus are assisting Indian investigators. This is the latest setback for Air India, which has faced multiple challenges in recent years, including a fatal crash in 2025 that killed 241 people.