NEW DELHI: The captain of an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi that experienced a sudden loss of altitude of around 300 feet on August 4 underwent a psychoactive substance screening test after landing, with the result reported as “not negative” and sent for confirmatory analysis, the aviation ministry said on Sunday.
The incident involved Air India flight AI 2379, which was operated by an Airbus A320. The aircraft reportedly encountered severe turbulence and briefly lost altitude, leaving 17 people hospitalised. The flight later landed safely in Delhi.
The aviation ministry said the incident has been classified as serious and will be investigated by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB).
“As per standard operating procedures following such an occurrence, both flight crew members underwent the prescribed psychoactive substance screening test. The screening test in respect of the Pilot-In-Command (PIC) indicated a result requiring confirmatory testing,” the ministry said.
The pilot’s sample has been sent to a designated laboratory for confirmatory analysis, and the final report is awaited. “Further action, as appropriate, will be taken based on the outcome of the investigation and confirmatory test results,” the ministry said.
Both Air India pilots grounded pending probe
Under Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) regulations, a crew member whose initial psychoactive substance screening test is non-negative must be immediately removed from safety-sensitive duties until the confirmatory report is received.
If the confirmatory test is positive for the first time, the employee is required to be referred by the organisation for de-addiction treatment, as per the regulations.
The DGCA has taken both pilots off flying duty pending the investigation and confirmatory test results.
Several passengers and cabin crew members were injured when the aircraft suddenly lost altitude during the flight. The aircraft subsequently completed its journey and landed safely in Delhi.
