What led to the termination of the Air India pilot after the Phuket-Delhi flight?

The Air India pilot was terminated after testing 'non-negative' for a psychoactive substance in a confirmatory test, following a sudden loss of altitude during flight that injured 20 passengers and 4 crew members.

What investigations are being conducted regarding the pilot's drug test results?

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is conducting a detailed investigation into the pilot's drug test results, which confirmed the presence of a psychoactive substance. The AAIB has recommended that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) take appropriate action.

How is Air India responding to safety concerns after the incident?

In response to the incident, Air India has initiated voluntary testing of 100% of its pilots and is cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation, emphasizing its commitment to safety and regulatory compliance.

Air India terminates Phuket-Delhi pilot after AAIB confirms ‘non-negative’ psychoactive substance test

The pilot tested “non-negative” for a psychoactive substance in a confirmatory test, a preliminary Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) report said.

Updated on: Sep 4, 2026, 18:50:20 IST

By HT News Desk

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Air India said in a statement on Friday that it has terminated the pilot-in-command (PIC) of its August 4 Phuket-Delhi flight after the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of altitude in cruise, injuring 20 passengers and 4 crew members.

Medical pesonnel present with an injured passenger in a wheelchair after several passengers, including crew members, got injured as Air India flight (AI2379) from Phuket to Delhi experienced a brief in-flight turbulence, in New Delhi. (ANI Video Grab)

The pilot tested “non-negative” for a psychoactive substance in a confirmatory test, according to a preliminary report released by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) on Friday.

“Safety remains Air India's highest priority. The Pilot-in-Command of the Phuket-Delhi flight tested positive for a psychoactive substance. In line with Air India's zero-tolerance approach to violation of safety, fitness or regulatory requirements, the pilot's employment has been terminated with immediate effect,” an Air India spokesperson said in a statement.

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