Air India Mandates Drug Tests for 5,000 Pilots

Air India launched a mandatory, one-time psychoactive substance screening for more than 5,000 pilots on August 13, 2026. The directive applies to both Air India and Air India Express fleets and exceeds standard Directorate General of Civil Aviation requirements.

The move follows a serious incident on August 4 involving flight AI2379 from Phuket to Delhi. The aircraft experienced an abrupt 300-foot altitude drop during cruise, resulting in injuries to 24 passengers and crew members. A laboratory report later confirmed the pilot-in-command tested positive for marijuana.

Screenings are being conducted at the Gurugram Academy, flight briefing centers, and designated bases. Under current regulations, first-time offenders are referred to rehabilitation, while second and third positive results lead to a three-year license suspension and permanent cancellation, respectively.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau is currently investigating the August 4 incident with assistance from Airbus SE and France's Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety.