Centre proposes mandatory year-round random drug tests for all pilots
The Civil Aviation Ministry is exploring a proposal to conduct psychoactive substance tests on all commercial pilots throughout the year on a random basis, a move aimed at strengthening safety standards in the wake of recent incidents.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said on Tuesday (August 25, 2026) that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is holding discussions with stakeholders on revising the current drug-testing norms for pilots.
“Right now, the rules say 10% (drug tests) across the overall pilot network, but just like I said, DGCA is engaging (with stakeholders). One of the opinions from our side is that everyone has to go through it (drug tests) the (whole) year at a random time. So, we have to see how all the stakeholders are going to respond to this,” the Minister said on the sidelines of an event in New Delhi.
The proposal comes after an Air India captain operating a Phuket-Delhi flight, which experienced a sudden altitude loss, tested positive for marijuana. The incident has intensified scrutiny over possible substance use by pilots.
Currently, drug tests for pilots are conducted on a random basis, with the DGCA mandating that at least 10% of the pilot workforce be tested. The proposed change would require every pilot to undergo testing at random points during the year, potentially increasing the frequency and coverage of checks.
Mr. Naidu said the regulator is consulting stakeholders to review existing rules and establish a stricter policy. “There are multiple ways of approaching this dope test (thing),” he said, without elaborating on the specific modalities under consideration.
The DGCA’s consultations are expected to involve airlines, pilot unions, and medical experts. Key issues likely to be discussed include the logistics of year-round testing, the choice of substances screened, and the safeguards needed to ensure fair and non-discriminatory procedures.
Meanwhile, Air India and Air India Express have already started mandatory psychoactive substance testing for all their pilots, according to officials. The airlines did not issue a public statement, but the move is seen as an immediate response to the incident involving their captain.
Aviation safety experts argue that regular and unpredictable testing can act as a deterrent against drug use among cockpit crew. However, some have also raised concerns about privacy and the need for clear guidelines to prevent misuse of test results.
The Civil Aviation Ministry has not yet set a timeline for introducing the proposed rule. The final decision will depend on the outcome of the stakeholder consultations and the regulatory process.
Under current DGCA regulations, a pilot found positive for psychoactive substances faces suspension and possible revocation of licence. The airline is also liable for disciplinary action. The proposed expansion of testing would likely bring India in line with stricter international practices observed in several countries.
Industry observers note that while the proposal aims to enhance safety, it must also account for the mental health and well-being of pilots. The challenge for regulators will be to strike a balance between vigilance and the rights of individuals.
The DGCA is expected to release a detailed framework after consultations. Until then, the existing random testing protocol remains in force.
