Air India orders drug screening for all pilots after AI 2379 incident

Air India has mandated mandatory drug screening for all pilots following a mid-flight incident. The policy shift came after a Boeing A320 experienced a sudden 300-foot altitude drop on flight AI-2379, causing injuries to passengers and crew. The pilot in command, Sudeep Vashistha, tested positive for marijuana during post-flight drug testing.

This incident has prompted Air India to implement universal screening for all flight crew at all times. The airline's senior vice president for flight operations emphasized the importance of protecting the airline's reputation and maintaining high safety standards. This decision was met with anger and disappointment from Air India's outgoing CEO, who urged employees to report any wrongdoings and warned of increased scrutiny.

The Maharashtra FDA also warned against fake agents seeking money for food and drug licenses. Air India Express, the low-cost subsidiary, has launched a parallel campaign for pilots to voluntarily disclose any personal struggles with substance abuse. Other carriers may follow suit, with the DGCA considering stricter regulations and pre-flight drug tests.