Air India Pilot Undergoes Confirmatory Drug Test After Phuket to Delhi Flight Turbulence

The pilot in command of an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi is undergoing a confirmatory drug test after an initial screening showed a result requiring further analysis. The incident occurred on August 4 when flight AI 2379, an A320 aircraft, experienced a sudden altitude drop of approximately 300 feet while cruising. The Air Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has classified the event as a serious incident and has launched a probe into the cause of the turbulence. Both flight crew members have been taken off the roster by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) pending the investigation results.

Approximately 17 to 24 people, including passengers and cabin crew, were injured during the drop. Reports indicate that passengers were thrown against the cabin ceiling, with some sustaining rib and spinal injuries. While most injured passengers were discharged shortly after landing at Delhi airport, two crew members remained hospitalized with spinal injuries. Air India stated that it has not yet received the results of the drug tests, while the government confirmed that the pilot in command's screening test was non negative and requires a detailed laboratory analysis.

Outlets with a center lean focused on the injuries and the fact that a confirmatory test was required. Outlets with a center right lean provided more detailed accounts of passenger testimonies and emphasized the official government procedures regarding the drug testing process.