Two Air India pilots have tested non-negative for psychoactive substances during a one-time dope-testing drive covering the airline group’s cockpit crew.
So far, around 300–400 pilots have provided samples. The two pilots have been removed from flying duties while confirmatory tests are conducted and final reports are awaited.
Air India and Air India Express together employ around 5,000 pilots. The testing drive was launched after an Air India pilot on the Phuket–Delhi flight of August 4 tested positive in a confirmatory test.
Under Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) rules, a pilot who tests positive for psychoactive substances for the first time must undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation. They can return to flying after testing negative. A second positive test can lead to a three-year suspension of the pilot’s licence, while a third positive test results in cancellation of the licence.
The Aviation Ministry has also directed the DGCA to strengthen dope-testing requirements by increasing the proportion of aviation personnel subject to mandatory testing. It has further called for stricter action against those using prohibited drugs, while allowing additional chances in cases where a non-negative result is linked to certain medicines.
