Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 9: Air India on Sunday said it regularly conducts drug testing of its crew members in accordance with Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) guidelines, amid reports that one of the pilots of the turbulence-hit Phuket-Delhi flight tested positive for psychoactive substances.

The airline, however, said it has not received the report of the post-flight dope test and is therefore unable to comment on the reported findings.

"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.

The airline further clarified that drug testing of crew members is conducted regularly and is not linked to any 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 spokesperson said.

The development comes days after Air India flight AI2379, operating from Phuket to Delhi on August 4, encountered severe turbulence for around four to five minutes.

The aircraft, carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members, lost around 300 feet in altitude during the incident. At least 17 people, including four cabin crew members, were injured.
The four injured crew members reportedly suffered spinal and neck injuries, following which the DGCA launched an investigation into the incident.

Reports later emerged that one of the two pilots had tested positive for psychoactive substances during a post-flight screening conducted as part of the investigation.

However, the test report has not yet been shared with Air India, leaving the airline unable to comment on the reported result.

It remains to be seen what action will be taken if the reported test result is officially confirmed.

Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu had earlier praised the Air India crew for their response during the incident, saying the crew continued to assist passengers even though the aircraft had to remain airborne for another hour.

"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 would like to thank them for the bravery they have shown," Naidu said.