Air India mandates substance testing for all pilots after Phuket-Delhi incident

Air India has launched mandatory psychoactive substance testing for all its pilots, expanding its safety oversight measures after the commander of a Phuket-Delhi flight tested positive for marijuana following a serious in-flight incident earlier this month.

The airline informed pilots on August 13 that it would begin a one-time screening programme covering all Group pilots. According to reporting by Business Standard, the move goes beyond existing regulatory requirements and is intended to reinforce safety standards and strengthen trust among passengers and stakeholders.

The decision comes amid heightened scrutiny of the carrier's operational safety practices following a series of incidents that have attracted regulatory and public attention.

Airline moves beyond regulatory requirements

Under current Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) rules, pilots and other aviation personnel are subject to random testing for psychoactive substances while on duty.

Air India said it would continue conducting random tests as mandated by regulations. However, the airline has now decided to carry out a comprehensive screening of all pilots for substances or medications prohibited under prevailing aviation rules.

In an internal communication to pilots, the airline stated that trust remained its most valuable asset and said additional measures were necessary to maintain public confidence.

The testing programme began on August 13 and is being conducted through multiple operational channels, including:

• Training sessions at the Air India Gurugram Academy
• Post-flight testing at Flight Briefing Centres
• Testing at Air India offices
• Screening at designated locations across pilot bases

Phuket-Delhi incident triggered heightened focus

The expanded testing programme follows the August 4 incident involving Air India flight AI2379 from Phuket to Delhi.

According to reports, the Airbus A320 experienced a sudden loss of approximately 300 feet in altitude during the flight.

Key details of the incident include:

• Aircraft: Airbus A320
• Route: Phuket to Delhi
• Date: August 4, 2026
• Passengers onboard: 137, including three infants
• Crew onboard: Eight
• Injuries reported: 24 people, including 20 passengers and four crew members
• Outcome: Aircraft landed safely in Delhi

Following mandatory post-flight screening, the pilot-in-command returned a non-negative result for marijuana during the initial test. A subsequent confirmatory test also produced a positive result.

Both pilots were removed from flying duties after the screening process.

Investigation remains under way

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is investigating the incident, which has been classified as a "serious incident".

International agencies are also participating in the probe. According to Business Standard, Airbus and France's Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety (BEA) are assisting investigators.

The AAIB has urged caution against speculation while the investigation continues. The agency said statements, records, medical information and other evidence collected during the inquiry remain protected under the applicable investigative framework.

Rules on positive substance tests

India's aviation regulations prescribe a graduated response to confirmed violations involving psychoactive substances.

Under DGCA Civil Aviation Requirements:

• A first confirmed positive test does not automatically lead to licence suspension or cancellation
• The pilot must undergo a de-addiction or rehabilitation programme
• Flying duties can resume only after programme completion, a fresh urine test and medical fitness clearance
• A second confirmed violation can result in a three-year suspension of the licence
• A third confirmed violation can lead to licence cancellation

Business Standard reported that Air India's internal disciplinary framework is understood to be stricter than the minimum regulatory requirements. Any action against the pilot involved in the Phuket-Delhi flight will depend on findings from the airline's internal inquiry.

Safety confidence under the spotlight

The latest development comes as Air India continues efforts to strengthen operational oversight and rebuild passenger confidence.

Industry attention on the airline has intensified since the crash of flight AI171 in June last year, which claimed 260 lives. The Phuket-Delhi incident has further amplified discussions around safety governance, crew oversight and risk management within the airline.

Air India's outgoing Chief Executive Officer Campbell Wilson was recently called by the Ministry of Civil Aviation to brief officials on the incident and subsequently met ministry and DGCA representatives regarding the matter.

As investigations progress, the airline's decision to screen its entire pilot workforce signals a tougher internal approach to safety compliance, even where regulations do not mandate such measures.