Air India Pilot Fails Second Dope Test: Sources

Core News & Key Facts

The pilot-in-command of Air India flight AI-2379 from Phuket to Delhi has reportedly failed a second dope test following an incident in which the aircraft suddenly lost 300 feet of altitude during its cruise phase. Sources told NDTV that the second test also returned positive and specifically indicated marijuana use.

The pilot has been off-rostered pending an inquiry. Both pilots have now been removed from duty as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The Airbus A320neo was carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members when the incident occurred on August 4. According to information cited by NDTV, at least 20 passengers and four crew members were injured. Two crew members suffered spinal injuries near the tailbone and neck, according to Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu.

Context & Statements

Sources said the pilot had initially tested positive for psychoactive substances during post-flight screening in Delhi. A further test was subsequently conducted and was also reportedly positive. The reported findings have raised questions about the pilot's fitness to operate the aircraft, although the investigation into the incident is still underway.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation said on Tuesday that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has begun a comprehensive investigation. Investigators are examining technical, operational, medical and human-factor evidence, including the aircraft and its systems, recorded flight data, maintenance and operational records, medical information and interviews.

The ministry cautioned against drawing conclusions from any single piece of information while the investigation remains in progress. It said the investigation's objective is to establish the circumstances and contributing factors and identify safety measures to prevent a recurrence.

Impact & What's Next

The reported second positive dope test adds a significant human-factor element to the investigation, but authorities have not yet established that it caused the aircraft's sudden altitude loss.

According to the sources cited, the pilot was reportedly not in his seat when the aircraft entered a negative-G situation, while the co-pilot was in command. The reason for the altitude loss — including whether it involved pilot action, a technical issue or a hydraulic malfunction — remains under investigation.

Air India's outgoing CEO Campbell Wilson met senior ministry officials on Tuesday. Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said the government was treating the matter seriously and reiterated that aviation safety remains the ministry's top priority.

The AAIB's final findings are expected to clarify the sequence of events and determine whether any technical, operational or human factors contributed to the incident.