Air India co-pilot suspended after failing pre-flight alcohol test on Zurich–Delhi route

An Air India co-pilot was suspended following a failed alcohol test prior to a flight from Zurich to Delhi on September 6, according to reports. The first officer was removed from the aircraft shortly before departure when authorities suspected he had consumed alcohol. Preliminary test results indicated a failure, although the final outcome of the second test conducted in Zurich is still pending.

The co-pilot was subsequently repatriated to India as a passenger and remains suspended until the completion of the final medical examination. Air India emphasizes its zero-tolerance policy towards any violation of safety, regulatory, or company protocols, stating that any confirmed breach is dealt with firmly in accordance with regulatory requirements and company policy.

The airline has reminded flight crew of their responsibility to uphold the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and integrity, and conducts regular awareness and compliance training, mandating testing for psychoactive substances and imposing disciplinary measures beyond minimum regulatory requirements. This incident follows a recent case involving another Air India pilot who tested positive for marijuana after a Phuket-to-Delhi flight on August 4, resulting in over 20 passengers and four crew members sustaining injuries.

The pilot in command of flight AI-2379 was subsequently dismissed. Following the recent incident, Air India has ordered mandatory drug testing for all its pilots and implemented additional measures to strengthen compliance, including enhanced awareness programs and reinforced reporting obligations.