Air India to test all pilots for banned substances

Air India is implementing a comprehensive pilot testing program for banned substances and medications, taking effect immediately. This move follows a concerning incident last week when the airline's flight from Phuket to Delhi unexpectedly lost altitude, with a preliminary report revealing the senior pilot tested positive for marijuana. In response, pilots at Air India Express, the airline's budget subsidiary, will also undergo the testing process starting Thursday.

Existing regulations mandate at least a 10% random sample of pilots to be tested. The incident, which occurred on August 4th, resulted in injuries to 17 passengers and crew members after the Airbus A320 lost approximately 91 meters (300 feet) of altitude shortly after takeoff. The crash investigation is currently underway, involving Indian authorities, Airbus, and France's air safety agency. Both pilots involved in the incident have been temporarily removed from their duties pending the outcome of the investigation.

Air India's memo emphasized that this testing initiative goes beyond regulatory requirements, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and professionalism. The airline aims to reassure passengers, stakeholders, and the public with these additional safety measures. The airline has faced scrutiny recently due to another tragic event in June 2025, when a flight from Ahmedabad to London crashed shortly after takeoff, resulting in the loss of 241 lives on board and 19 people on the ground, with only one survivor.

To address these safety concerns, the airline has initiated substance testing alongside training sessions at its academy and other locations, including briefing centers and offices. The airline's new CEO, Tewolde Gebremariam, formerly the head of Ethiopian Airlines, is overseeing these changes.