2 Air India pilots have failed dope test so far, taken off duty

NEW DELHI: As part of a one-time dope testing initiative for Air India pilots, two individuals among the 300-400 crew members tested positive so far, leading to their immediate removal from flying duties pending confirmatory tests. The airline, along with its subsidiary AI Express, employs approximately 5,000 pilots. Following a positive test result in a confirmatory test for the pilot of an AI flight that crashed on August 4 between Phuket and Delhi, the group initiated this comprehensive testing exercise to maintain the trust of millions of passengers it has built over decades.

According to DGCA rules, the first positive test mandates referral for de-addiction and rehabilitation, with the pilot's return to active duty contingent on a subsequent negative test. Subsequent positive tests would result in a three-year suspension of the pilot's licence, with cancellation following a third positive test. The aviation ministry has instructed the DGCA to expand mandatory testing to a higher percentage of personnel and to impose stricter penalties for those using real drugs while allowing second and third chances for those testing positive due to medication.