Two Air India pilots have tested non-negative for psychoactive substances in drug screening conducted on around 350 pilots since the airline group announced a 100% testing programme last week, people familiar with the matter said.
Phuket-Delhi flight incident triggered scrutiny
The development comes days after Air India and Air India Express began mandatory psychoactive substance screening for all their pilots following an incident involving an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi. The commander of the flight tested positive for marijuana in both an initial screening and a subsequent confirmatory test. The incident is being investigated by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB). The aircraft also recorded multiple warnings during the episode. The pilot has since been removed from flying duties pending further action and investigation.
The expanded testing follows the August 4 incident involving Air India flight AI2379, an Airbus A320neo operating from Phuket to Delhi. The aircraft suddenly lost around 300 feet in altitude while cruising.
A preliminary defect report prepared by the pilots said the incident was preceded by several technical issues, including an autopilot disconnection.
