{
  "id": 348475,
  "title": "Pilot of turbulence-hit Air India flight that dropped 300ft may have been intoxicated: Media",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/09/pilot-of-turbulence-hit-air-india-flight-that-dropped-300ft-may-have",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-09T05:17:21.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Gulf News",
    "slug": "gulf-news",
    "url": "https://gulfnews.com/business/aviation/pilot-of-turbulence-hit-air-india-flight-that-dropped-300ft-may-have-been-intoxicated-media-1.500635140"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "An Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi experienced a significant drop of 300 feet due to turbulence on August 4, resulting in injuries to several passengers and crew members. According to multiple sources quoted by the Times of India, the pilot of the Airbus A320 reportedly tested positive for marijuana before the incident. The airline confirmed that a post-flight screening was conducted, but has not released the results. Air India stated they adhere to drug testing regulations for crew members. The DGCA is investigating the incident, grounding all crew members for questioning. If a pilot tests positive for psychoactive substances, they must undergo a rehabilitation protocol. A repeat offender faces a three-year license suspension.",
  "summary": "The pilot of the Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi has allegedly tested positive for marijuana , reported Times of India, citing multiple sources. The airline is yet to issue a statement. It did however state that a post-flight screening test was conducted, the results of which haven’t been shared with Air India. The Airbus A320, which behaved erratically during a bout of turbulence as it…",
  "key_points": [
    "Air India flight dropped 300 feet due to turbulence on August 4.",
    "Pilot tested positive for marijuana before incident, media reports.",
    "DGCA investigating, grounding crew for questioning."
  ],
  "editors_take": "A pilot testing positive for marijuana before a flight incident raises concerns about adherence to aviation regulations and may lead to disciplinary action under the country's aviation rules.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Hindustan Times",
        "title": "Did pilot of turbulence-hit Phuket-Delhi flight fail dope test? Air India says results not shared yet",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/09/did-pilot-of-turbulence-hit-phuket-delhi-flight-fail-dope-test-air",
        "published": "2026-08-09T05:35:51.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}