Air India expands drug testing to all pilots after captain tests positive for marijuana

In a recent development, Air India will commence mandatory drug testing for all its pilots, effective Thursday. This expansion of checks follows a mid-air incident where a pilot involved in the mishap tested positive for marijuana, as reported by an internal memo. The substance screenings will adhere to aviation regulations, and will be administered during flight training sessions at Air India's Gurugram academy, along with other locations such as briefing centers, offices, and designated sites by pilot home bases.

Budget airline Air India Express will also be subject to the new drug testing policy. While Air India declined to comment on the matter, existing regulations mandate a minimum of 10% random testing for psychoactive substances annually. The airline's decision to widen the scope of drug testing was described as a necessary measure to maintain safety standards and ensure passenger confidence.

The move comes in the wake of an incident on August 4, where an Air India Airbus A320neo experienced a sudden altitude loss of 300 feet (91 meters) during its flight from Phuket to Delhi. The captain of that flight subsequently tested positive for marijuana, according to sources familiar with the situation.