AADK proposes monthly random urine tests for pilots, flight crew

The National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK) has proposed implementing random urine tests for pilots and flight crew at least once a month to combat drug abuse in the aviation sector. AADK director-general Ruslin Jusoh indicated that this proposal would be discussed with Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), with the hope of signing a memorandum of understanding next month.

MAG already has panel hospitals, clinics, and trained doctors to conduct urine tests, but AADK believes that random testing can be beneficial. Jusoh stated that the frequency of tests could be increased if necessary. The ongoing screening of about 1,000 pilots is expected to conclude by September 15, with all screened individuals testing negative so far.

In July, a Malaysia Airlines pilot was arrested at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta after being found in possession of ecstasy pills and methamphetamine, and both substances were also detected in his system. Another pilot linked to a drug-smuggling syndicate allegedly connected to the Malaysia Airlines pilot was arrested on September 4.

MAG reported that 98.8% of cabin crew members had been screened for drugs and tested negative as of September 4.