Govt likely to increase random drug testing from 10% to 25% of pilots: Sources

The Ministry of Civil Aviation plans to increase random drug testing for flight crews from 10% to over 25%, according to sources. The heightened focus on drug testing began after a pilot on an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi tested positive for marijuana, a psychoactive substance, following heavy turbulence. Recently, it was reported that Air India and Air India Express will begin screening all their pilots for psychoactive substances, alongside the Center's plans to amend rules for stricter action against pilots testing positive for drugs.

Manish Uppal, the Head of Flight Operations at Air India, announced in an email to all group pilots that full screening will commence immediately for any prohibited substances or medications, effective immediately on 13 August 2026.