Air India terminated pilot on Phuket-Delhi flight, who failed drug test with immediate effect

Air India on Friday said the Pilot-in-Command of the Phuket-Delhi flight tested positive for a psychoactive substance and added that in line with Air India's zero-tolerance approach to violation of safety, fitness or regulatory requirements, the pilot's employment has been terminated with immediate effect.

The incident was reported on August 4 when the flight, which was carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members, faced mid-air turbulence before losing 300 feet in altitude. The flight left 17 passengers, including four crew members, injured.



One of the crew members also suffered a spinal and neck injury. 

After the incident, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) took cognisance of the incident, it was found that the pilot-in-command had tested positive for marijuana in a screening test. Later, the airline said it was not in a situation to comment on the development. However, Air India had clarified that it regularly undertakes regular drug testing of crew members in compliance with civil aviation regulations, while adding that it would continue coordinating with the authorities.