The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is investigating the Air India Phuket-Delhi flight AI2379 after a mandatory post-flight drug screening reportedly found one of the pilots testing positive. Pending the outcome of the investigation, both pilots have been removed from flying duties in accordance with standard operating procedures.
The screening was conducted after Air India Flight AI2379 encountered severe turbulence during its journey from Phuket to Delhi a few days ago. During the incident, the aircraft reportedly experienced a sudden altitude drop of nearly 300 feet, resulting in injuries to several passengers and prompting regulatory scrutiny.
According to sources, one of the two pilots operating the flight tested positive during the mandatory drug screening conducted after the flight. As per established procedures, both pilots have been taken off duty until the investigation is completed.
A senior official from the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) said that the DGCA is currently examining the incident. Based on the regulator's findings, authorities will decide whether a further investigation by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is required.
Responding to the reports, an Air India spokesperson said the airline has not received the results of the screening test and, therefore, cannot comment on the outcome. The spokesperson stated that the pilots underwent post-flight screening in accordance with applicable regulations, but the test results have not been shared with the airline.
The airline also reiterated that it conducts routine drug tests of crew members in compliance with civil aviation regulations and will continue to extend full cooperation to investigating authorities whenever required.
The turbulence incident occurred on August 4 while the flight was operating from Phuket to Delhi. The aircraft encountered severe turbulence during the journey, causing medical issues for several passengers. Around 24 passengers were taken to hospitals for medical evaluation following the landing. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu had earlier stated that most of the affected passengers were discharged from hospital within a few hours after receiving treatment.
The DGCA's investigation into the incident is currently underway, and further action will be determined after the regulator submits its findings.
