Phuket-Delhi flight incident: Air India pilot tests positive in second dope test, sources say

New Delhi: The pilot-in-command of an Air India Phuket-Delhi flight that suffered a sudden loss of altitude last week has reportedly tested positive for marijuana in a confirmatory psychoactive substance screening test, sources said on Tuesday.

The development comes as the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) continues its probe into the serious incident, while the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has taken both pilots off the roster pending completion of the investigation and prescribed testing process.

Pilot's confirmatory test reportedly positive

Sources said the pilot tested positive for marijuana, a psychoactive substance, in the confirmatory test.

Both pilots underwent the prescribed psychoactive substance screening following the incident involving flight AI2379 on August 4.

The initial screening of the pilot-in-command had indicated a result requiring confirmatory testing. His sample was subsequently sent to a designated laboratory for further analysis.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation had said on August 9 that the final confirmatory report was awaited.

"Samples have accordingly been sent to the designated laboratory for confirmatory analysis, and the final report is awaited," the ministry said in a statement.

The latest development, according to sources, is that the pilot has now tested positive for marijuana.

Flight lost 300 feet during turbulence

The Phuket-Delhi flight, operated by Air India using an Airbus A320, suddenly lost around 300 feet in altitude while cruising on August 4.

The aircraft later stabilised and continued its journey, landing safely in Delhi.

The flight was carrying 145 people — 137 passengers and eight crew members. The passenger count included three infants. The crew comprised two pilots and six cabin crew members.

At least 17 people were injured during the incident, according to the information provided after the occurrence.

The AAIB has classified the incident as a "Serious Incident" and is investigating the circumstances surrounding the sudden altitude loss.

DGCA takes both pilots off roster

Following the occurrence, both flight crew members underwent the prescribed psychoactive substance screening as part of standard operating procedures.

The screening of the pilot-in-command produced a result that required confirmatory analysis. Pending completion of the investigation and the testing process, the DGCA removed both pilots from the roster.

Further action is expected to be determined based on the findings of the investigation and the outcome of the confirmatory testing.

Aviation safety 'topmost priority': Minister

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu met Air India's outgoing CEO Campbell Wilson on Tuesday to seek an update from the airline on the incident.

Speaking after the meeting, Naidu said the ministry had taken the matter seriously and reiterated that aviation safety remained its highest priority.

"We wanted to get a direct update from Air India also on the incident. We wanted to see how they are taking this issue from their side. I have told time and again that from the Ministry, safety in aviation is the topmost priority. There shouldn't be any compromise from any side - even the regulators or airlines or anyone," the minister said.

Naidu said the meeting was a preliminary step to obtain an update from the airline, while the AAIB would continue with the investigation.

"So, this issue we have taken very seriously from the Ministry side also. We have spoken to him as a preliminary task, just to get an update. But AAIB (Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau) has been given the task to continue the investigation. We have good confidence in AAIB. So, let's wait for the full-fledged report to come from AAIB so that we can see what action needs to be taken on this," he said.

The minister also said the government would consider changes to existing regulations if necessary.

"But in the meantime, if it is anything related to substance abuse or substance using, I would say that from the Ministry we are taking it very seriously and if we find that there needs to be some tweaking in the existing regulation, we are ready to do that also," Naidu said.

Air India, Airbus refrain from commenting on findings

Air India on Monday said it could not comment on findings or observations relating to the investigation because the AAIB probe was still under way.

The airline said the investigation was being conducted under the provisions of Annex 13 of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

"The investigation into the incident is being conducted by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) under the provisions of ICAO Annex 13. As the investigative process is ongoing, Air India cannot comment on any findings or observations related to the investigation. We will continue to extend our full cooperation to relevant authorities as required," an Air India spokesperson said.

Airbus has also said it is providing technical assistance to the investigating authorities.

"In accordance with ICAO Annex 13, Airbus is providing technical assistance to the relevant investigating authorities. We are actively supporting the airline and will provide further information as it becomes available. A team of specialists is being dispatched to assist with the investigation," the aircraft manufacturer said.

AAIB probe to establish facts

Under ICAO Annex 13, accidents and serious incidents involving aircraft are investigated to establish the relevant facts and help prevent similar accidents and incidents in the future.

The framework sets out provisions governing investigations, participation by relevant states and authorities, and the preparation of preliminary and final reports.

The objective of such investigations is to prevent future accidents and incidents rather than apportion blame or liability.

The framework provides for a preliminary report within 30 days of an event and a final report as soon as possible, or within 12 months, after completion of the investigation.

A final report contains official information on the findings, causes or contributing factors and may also include safety recommendations.

The Phuket-Delhi incident remains under investigation by the AAIB. Air India and Airbus are continuing to provide cooperation and technical assistance to the authorities.