All Malaysia Airlines pilots test negative in mandatory drug screening

All Malaysia Airlines pilots have returned negative results from a mandatory drug screening, according to Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG). The screening of all operationally active pilots was completed on August 15, with no positive results reported. The next phase of the drug screening programme will involve approximately 2,840 cabin crew, with the process set to commence on August 18 and conclude by September 3.

MAG president and CEO Captain Nasaruddin A. Bakar emphasized that while the completion of the first phase was a significant milestone, it was not the end of the process. The group remains committed to maintaining rigorous safety standards and strengthening safeguards to protect passengers and stakeholders. Firefly, MAG's sister airline, has also initiated the screening process, which has already covered over half of its 158 pilots and 163 cabin crew, all of whom returned negative results as of August 15.

The group aims to complete the screening for all remaining pilots and cabin crew by August 25, surpassing the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia's (CAAM) deadline of September 5. MAG will continue its random testing programme, in collaboration with authorities, as part of its ongoing efforts to prevent and eliminate substance misuse within the organization.

This approach complements the group's existing fitness-for-duty framework, which includes various safety measures such as pre-employment screening, medical certification, recurrent training, and periodic alcohol and drug testing.