New Delhi:
Sources indicate that the pilot-in-command of the Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi, which encountered severe turbulence last week, has likely failed an initial drug test. This information, however, remains preliminary as a second test result is still pending. Air India has neither confirmed nor denied these developments.
According to sources, the pilot tested positive for psychoactive substances during a post-flight screening conducted in Delhi. A confirmatory test has also been performed, the outcome of which is yet to be disclosed.
The Tata-owned airline stated it is unable to comment on the findings at this juncture, as the test results have not yet been officially communicated to them.
Read:Â ‘We Thought We Would Die’: Passenger Recalls Air India Turbulence Scare
“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,” a company spokesperson affirmed.
Both pilots involved in the incident have been temporarily removed from flight duties pending the conclusion of the ongoing inquiry.
Air India emphasized that it conducts routine drug testing of its crew members, adhering to civil aviation regulations, irrespective of any specific flight or operational incident.
“We will continue to cooperate with the relevant authorities as required,” the airline added in its statement.
Under established regulations, a crew member testing positive for drugs for the first time must undergo rehabilitation and can only resume duties upon providing a negative drug test report. A second positive test can lead to a three-year suspension of their license, while a third offense may result in license cancellation.
It is also stipulated that crew members must declare any prescribed medications they are taking prior to testing, as these can influence test results.
The Air India Turbulence Incident
The AI2379 flight on August 4, carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members, experienced severe turbulence and an abrupt loss of altitude during its journey from the Thai resort town to Delhi.
Read:Â Air India Turbulence Lasted 5 Minutes, Crew Had Spinal Injuries: Minister
The airline reported that at least 13 passengers and four crew members sustained injuries in the incident. Passengers were discharged after a brief hospital stay.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu confirmed that two crew members suffered spinal injuries near the tailbone and neck. He commended the crew for their bravery and professionalism despite their injuries.
Minister Naidu, who visited the injured passengers in the hospital, stated that the turbulence lasted approximately five minutes.
The aviation regulatory body has launched an investigation into the incident. The aircraft was moved to a hangar, and the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder were secured to aid in the ongoing inquiry, according to the ministry.
