The pilot commanding an Air India flight that encountered a sudden mid-air drop while travelling from Phuket to Delhi has failed a second drug screening, according to sources familiar with the matter. The pilot has been removed from flying duties as authorities continue to investigate the incident, in which several passengers and crew members were injured.
The latest test was conducted as part of the procedures initiated following the incident. Sources said the pilot did not clear the second screening, prompting further scrutiny as the investigation progresses. The pilot has subsequently been taken off the airline's flying roster pending the outcome of the inquiry. Aviation authorities are examining different aspects of the episode, including the actions of the flight crew and the circumstances that led to the aircraft's sudden change in altitude.
The Air India flight was travelling from Phuket in Thailand to Delhi when it experienced severe turbulence and abruptly lost around 300 feet in altitude. There were 137 passengers and eight crew members on board the aircraft at the time. Several people suffered injuries during the episode. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu had earlier said that two crew members sustained spinal injuries around the neck and tailbone areas. Despite the mid-air scare, the aircraft continued its journey and landed safely in Delhi.
Investigators are now working to establish the precise sequence of events that led to the sudden loss of altitude. Flight data and other information from the aircraft are being examined to determine whether the episode was caused entirely by severe turbulence or whether additional factors contributed to it. Possible technical issues are also being studied as part of the wider investigation.
The inquiry is expected to examine the aircraft's systems, flight data and crew-related factors before reaching conclusions about what caused the incident. Air India management has also been in contact with the Civil Aviation Ministry over the episode as the investigation continues. The pilot will remain away from flying duties while the authorities complete their examination of the incident and the circumstances surrounding the drug-screening results.