Pilot of turbulence-hit Air India Phuket-Delhi flight likely failed dope test; DGCA investigates incident: Report
The pilot of the recent Air India Phuket-Delhi flight, which encountered turbulence earlier this week, reportedly tested positive for psychoactive substances in a dope test
The pilot of the recent Air India Phuket-Delhi flight, which encountered turbulence earlier this week, reportedly tested positive for psychoactive substances in a dope test conducted upon arrival. The Times of India, citing sources, reported the development on Sunday and added that Air India neither confirmed nor denied it but noted that while the tests were conducted, the results have not been shared. Air India issues statement on drug testing for pilots An Air India spokesperson said, "We are aware that a post-flight screening test was conducted on the pilots in accordance with applicable protocols. However, the results of the test have not been shared with Air India, and we are therefore not in a position to comment on any findings." The spokesperson further said, "Air India undertakes regular drug testing of crew members in compliance with civil aviation regulations, independent of any specific flight or operational incident. We will continue to cooperate with the relevant authorities as required." Air India Phuket-Delhi flight turbulence: What we know On Tuesday, an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi encountered 'clear air turbulence', causing a change in altitude.
Nearly 14 people, including passengers and crew members, sustained injuries. The aircraft later landed safely at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport. Confirming the incident, the airline released a statement saying, "Air India confirms that flight AI2379, operating from Phuket to Delhi on 4 August, experienced a brief in-flight turbulence-related event during cruise, resulting in a momentary change in altitude." Also Read | Air India to pay Kerala man ₹1.36 lakh after delayed flight It added, "There have been no serious injuries as of now. A small number of passengers and crew members with minor injuries requiring medical assessment have been taken to a medical facility at the airport for precautionary examination and care by Air India’s airport team and medical personnel." Flight AI2379, operated by aircraft VT-EXO, was scheduled to arrive at 11:15 AM. The pilot reportedly said the aircraft experienced a sudden drop of around 300 feet, which resulted in injuries to several people on board. Aviation Minister responds to turbulence Following the incident, Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu shared an update on Saturday regarding the severe turbulence experienced by an Air India flight earlier this week and assured the public that the situation was being handled with urgency and care.
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