Air India has announced mandatory screening of all pilots in its group for any substances or medications prohibited under existing regulations, with the process beginning on August 13, 2026.
The airline said the testing will be carried out alongside training sessions at the Gurugram Academy, after flights at its Flight Briefing Centres and Air India offices, as well as at designated locations at respective pilot bases.
According to the airline, the initiative goes beyond current regulatory requirements and is aimed at strengthening safety and professional standards while reassuring passengers, stakeholders and the wider community.
The latest order came after the Air India commander who was operating the Phuket-Delhi flight during a sudden altitude
change on August 4 reportedly struggled to remain upright after landing and needed assistance while providing a urine sample for a mandatory drug screening, according to NDTV.
Confirmatory Test Found Marijuana
The report comes shortly after the pilot’s confirmatory drug test reportedly returned positive for marijuana. Sources told CNN-News18 that the result has become a significant part of the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the flight incident.
300-Foot Altitude Change Injured 24
The Airbus A320 was carrying 137 passengers, including three infants, and eight crew members when the incident occurred during its journey from Phuket to Delhi. The aircraft underwent a sudden altitude variation of around 300 feet, injuring 20 passengers and four cabin crew members.
Pilot Found On Cockpit Floor
NDTV reported that the pilot was found on the cockpit floor around the time the aircraft experienced the sudden altitude change. Investigators have not yet determined whether he fell because of the aircraft’s movement or was already on the floor when the incident took place.
AAIB Investigator Assisted Pilot
After the aircraft reached the ground, the pilot reportedly appeared unable to maintain his balance. An Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) investigator reminded him that he was under CCTV surveillance before helping him sit down, sources said
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