Air India Phuket-Delhi flight faced a mid-air scare after a 300-foot altitude drop; AAIB probe revealed the pilot tested non-negative for a psychoactive substance (Img: X)
New Delhi: The investigation into the Air India Phuket-Delhi flight incident has taken a new turn after a preliminary probe found that the co-pilot tested positive for a psychoactive substance during post-flight screening. The development has raised concerns over aviation safety, prompting authorities and the airline to review safety measures.
The incident involved Air India flight AI2379, which faced severe turbulence while flying over Odisha and suddenly dropped around 300 feet in altitude. The aircraft later landed safely at Delhi airport, but several passengers and crew members suffered injuries.
According to the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) preliminary report, the pilot was found “non-negative” during an initial screening for psychoactive substances. A follow-up confirmatory test also showed a positive result.
The report described the finding as a serious safety concern and recommended that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) take appropriate action on priority.
Investigators are looking into various aspects of the incident, including technical issues, weather conditions and human factors. Officials are examining whether the substance detected had any impact on flight operations during the turbulence episode.
The aircraft’s sudden altitude change and the injuries suffered by passengers led investigators to classify the incident as an accident.
Following the report, Air India has decided to conduct additional drug screening of its pilots as a precautionary measure. The airline said passenger safety remains its highest priority and it is cooperating fully with the investigation.
The airline already follows mandatory testing rules laid down by aviation authorities but has initiated additional checks to strengthen safety protocols.
The Phuket-Delhi flight was carrying 145 people, including 137 passengers, three infants, six cabin crew members and two pilots.
At least 20 passengers and four crew members were injured during the turbulence incident. The detailed investigation by AAIB is still underway, and further action will depend on the final findings.
