Air India captain of turbulence-hit flight tests positive in drug screening; airline awaits final report

In a developing story, the captain of the Air India flight that experienced severe turbulence while travelling from Phuket to Delhi has reportedly tested positive for psychoactive substances in a post-flight screening. The test was conducted upon arrival in Delhi, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter. However, the airline has stated that it has not yet received the official results and cannot confirm or deny the finding.

The incident occurred on Tuesday, when an Airbus A320 carrying 145 passengers and crew encountered severe turbulence near Odisha. The aircraft suddenly dropped approximately 300 feet, leading to injuries among those on board. Upon landing in Delhi, 13 passengers and four crew members were hospitalised for medical attention.

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 added that the airline regularly conducts drug tests on crew members in compliance with civil aviation regulations, independent of any specific flight or operational incident.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched a comprehensive investigation into the event. Sources indicate that the probe is examining multiple angles, including whether the pilots handled the turbulence situation appropriately. Investigators are also looking into whether the severe turbulence was solely weather-related or if other factors contributed. Additionally, the DGCA is assessing the impact of the incident on the aircraft, such as potential hydraulic failure, and whether the flight should have continued to Delhi instead of diverting to a closer airport like Varanasi or Lucknow.

Pending the outcome of the investigation, the flight crew has been taken off flying duty as per standard protocol. This means the pilots involved are not currently operating any flights. The DGCA will determine whether any lapses occurred in following safety procedures or if the positive drug test, if confirmed, requires further action.

Drug testing of pilots is a standard procedure in the aviation industry to ensure safety. Aviation regulators mandate periodic tests to detect any substance abuse that could impair a pilot's ability to operate an aircraft. The results of such tests are typically handled with confidentiality, and pilots found to have violated rules may face suspension or revocation of their licences, depending on the severity.

This incident has drawn attention to the operational decisions made during the flight, particularly the choice to proceed to Delhi despite the severity of the turbulence. The DGCA is expected to release a detailed report after completing its investigation. Meanwhile, passengers who were injured are receiving medical care, and Air India has stated it will cooperate fully with the authorities.

The airline’s response reflects a cautious approach, emphasising that the results have not been shared and that no conclusions should be drawn until the official process is complete. This aligns with legal principles that require due process and the presumption of innocence until proven otherwise.

As the investigation continues, the aviation community and the public await further clarity on both the cause of the turbulence and the status of the pilot's test. The outcome will likely influence future safety protocols and decision-making during unexpected in-flight events.