New Delhi — The pilot in command of an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi, which experienced a sudden loss of altitude last week, was reportedly using medication for “sleep difficulty,” according to the airline’s internal flight safety report. This pilot had previously tested positive for marijuana twice in drug tests.
The incident occurred on August 4 when Air India flight AI-2379, carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members, abruptly dropped approximately 300 feet during its journey from Phuket to Delhi. At least 20 passengers and four crew members sustained injuries. The Airbus A320neo aircraft eventually landed safely in Delhi.
In his flight safety statement, the pilot disclosed, “I disclose, for completeness, that I had separately been experiencing sleep difficulty over a preceding period, related to personal circumstances, for which I had been prescribed medication by my family doctor.” He added, regarding his layover, “During the layover, I personally attempted rest; sleep did not come easily, and I judged that light activity such as walking would be constructive for sleep quality.”
The pilot also raised concerns about his roster duties, stating that while they were within prescribed rest limits, they were scheduled in a way that “compressed available daytime rest, which is often below the minimum required for adequate recovery.” He explained that for the first flight, he had to report for duty at 12:10 AM, necessitating preparations before 10 PM, making it difficult to get adequate sleep beforehand. After landing, post-flight duties and travel to the hotel in Phuket typically consumed 1.5 to 2 hours, further reducing his available rest time. For the return flight, he noted he had to wake up at 3 AM IST.
An incident report accessed by NDTV indicates that the pilot was not in his seat when the aircraft plunged over Odisha; the co-pilot was in command. Sources suggest that after the incident, the pilot went to the cabin to assess injuries and reportedly instructed passengers not to film him or the aircraft. Upon arrival in Delhi, sources described the pilot as unsteady on his feet and needing assistance to sit down. He also received physical help from an investigating officer while submitting his urine sample.
Further details reveal that during the flight from Delhi to Phuket, the pilot had requested a cabin attendant to occupy his seat while he used the washroom. Sources indicate he reprimanded the attendant for inadequately handling the operation. Later, in an apparent effort to make amends, the pilot reportedly took all crew members to a party in Phuket before the return flight.
Both pilots involved in the incident have been removed from roster duties pending a full inquiry.
