The captain of an Air India Phuket-Delhi flight that suddenly lost around 300 feet during turbulence on August 4 has reportedly tested positive for psychoactive substances in a post-flight dope test, according to a Times of India report citing multiple sources.
The reported test was conducted after the aircraft landed in Delhi. However, Air India has not confirmed the result, saying the test findings have not been shared with the airline.
“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," an Air India spokesperson said.
So, what exactly is a dope test for pilots, what does it detect and what happens if the result is confirmed positive.
What is a dope test for pilots?
A dope test is a check of psychoactive substances to get proof of any substance consumed by aviation personnel that might hamper their performance of duties.
According to DGCA rules, flight attendants and other aviation personnel are tested for substances like amphetamines, opiates, cannabinoids, cocaine, barbiturates, and benzodiazepines.
Airlines are required to carry out random tests for at least ten percent of the flight crew annually.
Testing can also be required in other circumstances, including before employment, follow-up testing of confirmed cases and after certain aviation-related incidents.
What happens if a pilot tests positive?
A key distinction is between a screening result and a confirmed positive result.
If an initial test is non-negative, the employee is taken off safety-sensitive duties until a confirmatory test is completed. A first confirmed positive result can lead to referral to a specialist doctor, counsellor or de-addiction and rehabilitation programme. The employee can return to active duties only after a subsequent negative test and the required medical fitness certification.
A second confirmed positive can result in suspension of the person's licence for three years, while a third violation can lead to cancellation of the licence under the DGCA framework.
What happened on the Air India flight?
Air India flight AI2379, an Airbus A320, was carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members when it encountered turbulence for around four to five minutes on August 4.
The aircraft suddenly lost approximately 300 feet. At least 17 people — 13 passengers and four cabin crew members — were admitted to hospital.
Air India said all 13 hospitalised passengers had been discharged by 3.30 pm on August 5. Some crew members suffered spinal, neck and tailbone injuries and were advised rest.
“The plane had to travel for one more hour and even through that hour, the crew members provided all the assistance required. It was very brave. I want to thank them for the bravery they have shown," Civil Aviation minister K Rammohan Naidu said, according to PTI.
Is the reported dope-test result linked to the turbulence?
There is no confirmed finding yet that the reported test result caused or contributed to the August 4 turbulence incident.
The DGCA is separately investigating the flight incident, while Air India says it has not received the reported test results.
The airline also said drug testing is conducted regularly and is not necessarily linked to a particular flight or operational incident.
“Air India undertakes regular drug testing of crew members in compliance with civil aviation regulations, independent of any specific flight or operational incident. We will continue to cooperate with the relevant authorities as required," the airline said.
A passenger has separately approached the DGCA through AirSewa, alleging injuries to two elderly family members and raising questions about the flight's handling and the medical response after landing. Air India said it was reviewing the complaint.
Until the reported result is officially confirmed and the DGCA investigation establishes its findings, the pilot should not be described as having failed the dope test as a confirmed fact.